As part of the BELLA II project, RedCLARA held a series of strategic meetings in Peru to continue advancing the establishment of a National Research and Education Network (RNIE). The meetings involved key stakeholders from the scientific and educational sectors, including the European Union Cooperation Office in Peru, the National Strategic Planning Center (CEPLAN), the National Commission for Aerospace Research and Development (CONIDA), the National Council of Science, Technology, and Innovation (CONCYTEC), and the National Telecommunications Program (Pronatel).

“These meetings are fundamental to RedCLARA’s mission, as they enable progress in building a National Research and Education Network in Peru. The integration of these stakeholders is key to enhancing the region's development, aligning efforts with the BELLA project and Peru's National Development Strategic Plan (PEND),” emphasized Cecilia Ortiz, Manager of Engagement with RNIEs at RedCLARA, who led the meetings.

The meetings aimed to identify collaboration opportunities to strengthen advanced connectivity and access to shared resources, facilitating Peru's inclusion in the regional network of RedCLARA and the BELLA II project. Additionally, the meetings sought to coordinate efforts to enhance connectivity and leverage advanced technologies, such as the Copernicus program, which would promote scientific research and address socioeconomic challenges in both Peru and Latin America.

“The establishment of an RNIE in Peru would represent a strategic step towards strengthening science, education, and innovation in the country, in line with the objectives of the PEND. These meetings reaffirm the commitment of Peruvian authorities to regional collaboration, consolidating a long-term relationship with RedCLARA and generating a solid platform for academic, scientific, and technological development that will benefit both Peru and the region,” Ortiz added.