In Dakar, Italian Embassy promotes scientific-cultural dialogue

(ANSA) - ROMA, 17 DIC - The Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, is a global initiative aimed at enhancing the tradition, culture, technologies and skills of the national production system that contribute to the success of Italian cuisine and food products in the world.
    In collaboration with the Gabriele d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, the Italian Embassy in Dakar has promoted opportunities for scientific and cultural dialogue with Senegal's research and higher education institutions, focusing on topics such as nutrition and the role of a proper diet in disease prevention. Professors Alessandra Ammazzalorso and Tiziana Pietrangelo met professors, researchers and PhD students from the Medicine, Pharmacy and Animal Biology Departments of the Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar (Ucad), with whom they discussed the results of their research on the anti-tumour effects and human physiology of functional molecules present in the foods of the Mediterranean diet. At the same time, Prof. Valeria Pica engaged in a discussion with professors and doctoral students from the Ucad Institute of Arts and Cultures, exploring the role of culture in health education and the promotion of local economic development.
    On the sidelines of the meetings, scientific attaché Dr. Eugenio Cavallo coordinated further exchange sessions between D'Annunzio University professors and Ucad representatives. Prof. Lucia Marinangeli, a geologist, presented to the Geology Department the applications of her research in space geology, and the implications for the sustainable exploitation of natural resources on earth. Prof. Davide Pietroni, on the other hand, discussed with the Psychology department the mechanisms of negotiation and the influence of cultural diversity in decision-making processes.
    During the Dakar mission, collaboration agreements were signed between the Gabriele d'Annunzio University and Ucad to develop educational projects, foster the academic mobility of students and lecturers, and promote joint research activities on topics of common interest.
    Ambassador Caterina Bertolini welcomed the representatives of D'Annunzio University, emphasising that the activities carried out in Dakar are fundamental for promoting and consolidating cooperation between Italian and West African institutions of higher education, research and innovation. These initiatives strengthen intercultural dialogue and contribute to development in the areas of health, environmental sustainability and economic growth of interest to both countries.
    Finally, representatives from D'Annunzio University met with the director and experts from the Dakar office of the Italian Agency for Cooperation and Development (AICS), with whom they explored possible contributions to cooperation initiatives in West African countries.