ASTRI and Slovak Academy of Sciences Forge Innovation Alliance

The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) and the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in innovation and technology. This agreement, finalized on September 16, 2025, represents a pivotal step in strengthening research and technological exchanges between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Slovak Republic.

The signing ceremony was part of a delegation visit organized by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister of Slovakia in collaboration with the Honorary Consulate of the Slovak Republic in Hong Kong. Senior representatives from ASTRI and other key stakeholders in the innovation and technology ecosystem attended the event, aiming to showcase Hong Kong’s capabilities and explore new opportunities within the Belt and Road countries.

Building a Framework for Joint Research

The MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperative efforts, including joint research activities, personnel exchanges, and the application of advanced technologies. This initiative aims to bolster research collaboration between ASTRI and SAS, fostering growth in both regions.

“This partnership exemplifies the strategic alignment between Hong Kong’s ambition to become a global innovation hub and Slovakia’s digital transformation agenda,” stated Ir Sunny Lee, Board Chairman of ASTRI. He expressed optimism about leveraging combined strengths to accelerate technology adoption and develop market-ready solutions, while also emphasizing the importance of nurturing talent in the innovation sector.

The President of SAS, Martin Venhart, D.Sc., noted, “This document represents a framework for future cooperation between the Slovak Academy of Sciences and ASTRI. I believe that joint activities in research and technology will be mutually beneficial and will allow us to effectively share experience and expertise.”

Engagement at SlovakiaTech Forum-Expo

The delegation’s activities will continue with participation in the opening ceremony of the SlovakiaTech Forum-Expo on September 17, 2025. Both Ir Sunny Lee and Dr. Ying Huang, Chief Technology Officer at ASTRI, have been invited to deliver speeches at this prominent event. Ir Lee will discuss “Cooperation between the State and the Private Sector to Boost the Innovative Performance of the Economy,” while Dr. Huang will present at the “Hong Kong Innovation Forum,” focusing on Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem and ASTRI’s successes.

During their visit, the delegation will also connect with Slovak enterprises to identify potential collaborative opportunities. High-level representatives from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Berlin, the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council are part of the delegation, enhancing the potential for significant partnerships.

The MoU and subsequent activities underscore a commitment to fostering innovation and technology development, benefiting both Hong Kong and Slovakia while contributing to a broader global network of research and technological advancement.

For more information about ASTRI, visit their official website at https://www.astri.org, and for further details on the Slovak Academy of Sciences, visit https://www.sav.sk.