Russell Group and German U15 universities discuss future global challenges

01 July 2021

As Prime Minister Boris Johnson and German Chancellor Angela Merkel meet today (2 July) at Chequers to discuss relations between the UK and Germany, universities from the Russell Group and German U15 are also meeting to discuss international collaboration.

Ahead of that meeting, Dr Tim Bradshaw, CEO of the Russell Group, emphasised the importance of ongoing collaboration between the two countries and reiterated the commitment of both mission groups to support their governments as they plan for a post-Covid recovery.

Commenting, Dr Bradshaw said:

“Today’s meeting between Boris Johnson and Angela Merkel underlines the strength of the relationship between our two countries.

“Universities and researchers in the UK and Germany have been fundamental in developing life-saving vaccines and charting a path out of the pandemic. Deepening the strong links between the Russell Group and German U15 will help ensure science is at the heart of the global recovery and build resilience against future threats.

“Open and transparent partnerships will be integral to delivering the scientific advances we need. Our meeting today will help ensure the leading research-intensive universities in the UK and Germany can continue to support open research while maintaining the security and integrity of the wider research ecosystem.

”The G7 research compact and UK - Germany joint declaration made clear the critical role that international collaboration will play in tackling the major global challenges of our time. Science and innovation will be at the heart of this work and we stand ready to support both Governments as they take action against climate change and global inequality.“

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