SAS and ASTRI Sign Memorandum of Cooperation
On Tuesday, 16 September 2025, Martin Venhart, DrSc., President of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS), and Ir Sunny Lee, Chairman of the Board of the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI), signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening research collaboration between Slovak and Hong Kong scientists.
The document expresses the shared commitment of both institutions to enhance cooperation in applied research and technological innovation. The memorandum outlines areas of future collaboration, including the exchange of researchers, sharing of scientific and technical information, and support for joint research and technology projects.
“This document provides a framework for future cooperation between SAS and ASTRI. I believe that joint activities in research and technology will benefit both sides and enable us to effectively share experience and expertise,” said SAS President Martin Venhart after the signing.
“This partnership is an example of the strategic alignment between Hong Kong’s ambition to become a global innovation hub and Slovakia’s drive for digital modernization,” noted Ir Sunny Lee, Chairman of ASTRI. “Our goal is to combine expertise and resources to accelerate technological progress, commercialize research, and create real social and economic impact. Most importantly, we aim to cultivate a new generation of talent in innovation and technology.”
Before the signing, SAS hosted a professional event at which three of its institutes presented their activities: the Institute of Electrical Engineering SAS, the Institute of Informatics SAS, and the Biomedical Research Center SAS showcased their current research and areas with potential for international collaboration. On the Hong Kong side, presentations were given by the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation and the Hong Kong Productivity Council, which highlighted their technological background and innovation capacity.
Founded in 2000 by the Hong Kong government, ASTRI is a leading research institute focused on developing technologies in fields such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, communications, cybersecurity, cryptography, integrated circuits, sensors, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Its research outputs find application in smart cities, financial technologies, digital health, smart manufacturing, and specialized integrated circuits. To date, ASTRI has achieved more than 750 technology transfers and holds over 900 patents registered in Hong Kong, China, the USA, and other countries.
Prepared by: Matej Švec, OMS SAS
Photo: Martin Bystriansky