The Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO and the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at promoting UNESCO's principles, values and priorities through joint initiatives in the fields of cultural heritage, the natural environment, scientific research, education and intercultural cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place at the "Christodoulos Sozos" Rectorate Building of the Cyprus University of Technology in Limassol, in the presence of representatives of both organisations, researchers and partners. The Memorandum was signed by Professor Diofantos Hadjimitsis, Chief Executive Officer of the Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence, and Dr Marina Solomidou Ieronymidou, President of the Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO, reaffirming the shared commitment of both organisations to establishing a long-term and meaningful collaboration for the benefit of cultural heritage, science and society.
The Memorandum establishes a framework for the development of joint initiatives that build on the complementary expertise of the two organisations. The collaboration will focus on the application of geospatial and digital technologies for the protection, preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, including efforts to combat the looting and illicit trafficking of cultural property. It also provides for the joint organisation of scientific and educational events, the preparation of studies and proposals for participation in UNESCO programmes, international initiatives and funding opportunities, as well as the promotion of research, innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of cultural heritage.
Through this partnership, the Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence and the Cyprus National Commission for UNESCO aspire to implement collaborative actions that will strengthen the protection and sustainable management of cultural and natural heritage, harness the potential of advanced technologies for the benefit of society, and enhance Cyprus' contribution to international efforts in science, culture and sustainable development.
The Memorandum of Understanding enters into force on 1 July 2026 and has an initial duration of four years, with the possibility of renewal. It represents an important milestone in establishing a long-term framework for cooperation that will evolve through joint projects, initiatives and activities in the years ahead.