Lithuania and Taiwan are strengthening their cooperation in laser science and photonics by combining their scientific expertise and developing joint research projects. The 3rd Taiwan–Lithuania Laser Conference, held in Druskininkai on 8–9 October, brought together researchers to discuss ongoing projects, present research findings and identify future directions for scientific collaboration. The event was organised by FTMC, the Research Council of Lithuania (LMT) and Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). Cooperation Built on Joint Projects The partnership between Lithuanian and Taiwanese researchers is being developed through a programme supported by the LMT and NSTC. Around ten joint research projects are funded each year, approximately four of which focus on laser science and photonics. Other projects cover biotechnology, energy, security and various other fields of research. Although the official funding programme is now in its third year, cooperation between the two countries began earlier. Including an initial conference held before the formal agreement was established, Lithuanian and Taiwanese researchers have met four times. According to Dr Gediminas Račiukaitis, Head of the Laser Technologies Department at FTMC, these meetings help researchers gain a better understanding of each other’s expertise and identify opportunities for joint research. “This programme is a particularly valuable instrument for developing international cooperation in a focused and structured way. Researchers can not only find partners for new ideas but also identify the areas in which Lithuanian and Taiwanese research groups have particular strengths. This helps shape new initiatives and build long-term relationships,” says Dr Račiukaitis. Different Expertise, Shared Research Challenges The conference brought together 30 Lithuanian and 28 Taiwanese researchers. Across the two main days of the event, 33 presentations covered high-power lasers, ultrashort-pulse optics, semiconductor lasers, photonics and advanced surface research. According to Dr Račiukaitis, the intensive scientific programme exceeded expectations and provided many valuable insights. The breadth of the programme reflected the expertise and diverse research interests of both countries. FTMC researchers are involved in a substantial proportion of joint Lithuanian–Taiwanese projects in laser science and photonics, contributing to the development of international research in these fields. The projects’ continuity is supported by an evaluation system under which projects receiving the highest assessments may be extended for a further year after their initial two-year funding period. Eight projects are currently ongoing, while decisions on extending some earlier initiatives are still pending. The Value of Partnership for the Future According to Dr Račiukaitis, the partnership between Lithuania and Taiwan enables researchers from both countries to share knowledge, combine their expertise and carry out joint research. For Lithuanian researchers working in laser science and photonics, this creates further opportunities to participate in international projects, while Taiwanese researchers can benefit from the experience and expertise accumulated by Lithuanian scientists in these fields. Joint projects and annual conferences provide opportunities to assess research outcomes, discuss future priorities and continue the most successful initiatives. In this way, the partnership between Lithuania and Taiwan is establishing a strong foundation for the continued development of science and technology. Source: FTMC