We talked with Rita Castilho, who was invited to participate in a key event that will promote collaboration between Europe and Cape Verde in matters of marine research and innovation. 

Why did you go to Mindelo, Cape Verde?

I was invited by the European Commission to participate with an oral presentation on “Biodiversity assessment: new tools for a better future” at the high-level event "Our Atlantic Ocean for Growth and Well-Being" that took place on 21-22 November 2018 in Mindelo on the island of São Vicente, Cabo Verde. The event was hosted at the Ocean Science Centre Mindelo in partnership with the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Germany and the National Institute for Fisheries Development INDP, Cabo Verde.
 
What was the highlight of your visit?

The highlight of the event was the co-signature by Commissioner Carlos Moedas, on behalf of the European Commission, and the Prime Minister of Cape Verde, Ulisses Correia e Silva, of a Cooperation Arrangement on Marine Research and Innovation Cooperation with the Government of Cabo Verde. This Cooperation Arrangement recognizes marine research, including ocean research, as a top priority for our international cooperation.
 
Does this visit open new opportunities for you and other CCMAR researchers?

Yes, of course. During the meeting, contacts with stakeholders from Europe and Cabo Verde from the public sector, private sector, foundations, funding agencies, research-performing organisations, academia and NGOs enable to discuss how to enhance the mutual benefit that would accrue from linking science, research and innovation activities between Europe and Cabo Verde.

Interesting? Want to know more?

Check out Rita Castilho full interview to Cape Verde media here, more info about the new Ocean Science Centre Mindelo here and the event program here.