OVIA participated on 26 November in the official reception of the Government Delegation from the city of Dongying, Shandong Province, People’s Republic of China, during a visit organised at iBET – Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica, in Oeiras. This initiative, integrated into the institutional agenda coordinated by the CCILC – Portugal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reinforced the scientific, technological and economic cooperation links between Oeiras Valley and one of China’s most dynamic industrial regions.
OVIA was represented by its Secretary-General, Tiago Sousa Dias, who took part in the official programme and accompanied the Chinese representatives throughout the various stages of the visit. The programme, led by the senior team of iBET, included institutional presentations and an in-depth tour of the institute’s research and bioproduction units, in accordance with the agenda prepared for the occasion.
The Chinese delegation, comprising high-level government officials, directors of public agencies and executives from companies in the chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors, had the opportunity to learn in detail about Oeiras’ scientific and technological ecosystem, expressing particular interest in the areas of biotechnology, applied research, health and advanced materials.
OVIA’s participation in this visit reinforces the role of the Investment Agency as an active agent of economic and technological diplomacy for Oeiras Valley, contributing to the creation of formal cooperation channels with China, one of the most competitive and influential innovation landscapes globally. By engaging in institutional visits of this nature, OVIA strengthens strategic bridges, supports the international positioning of the Municipality of Oeiras, and enhances future opportunities for scientific, academic and business collaboration.
The session concluded with a guided tour of iBET’s laboratory platforms and production units, further consolidating the Dongying Delegation’s perception of the scientific excellence rooted in Oeiras Valley and reinforcing the mutual interest in exploring future joint initiatives.