An International Cooperation Agreement (ICA) to enhance scientific cooperation in High Energy Physics between the scientific community of Sri Lanka and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), was signed in Geneva.

Minister of Science, Technology & Research, Susil Premajayantha and the Director for International Relations of CERN, Ms. Charlotte Warakaulle signed on behalf of the two parties. Speaking at the event, Minister Premajayantha said improving scientific cooperation with international organizations such as CERN will contribute to the Government’s efforts in the development of science, technology and research, as well as in popularizing science education in the country.

This Agreement will create a framework for the participation by Sri Lankan scientists, engineers and technicians in research projects of the CERN. It will increase opportunities for Sri Lankan undergraduates and physics teachers to participate in CERN’s training programmes. A group of leading scientists representing the different Universities in Sri Lanka would undertake a ‘Study visit’ to CERN in May 2017 in order to familiarize themselves with the CERN’s ongoing research.