Lithuania and Taiwan Strengthen Cooperation in Laser Technologies
The third Lithuania–Taiwan Laser Technology Workshop took place in Druskininkai on 8–10 October, bringing together researchers from both countries in Lithuania. The event provided an important platform for exchanging scientific ideas, discussing the results of ongoing research projects and exploring new opportunities for cooperation in laser technologies. Nearly 60 participants attended the workshop, which featured 33 presentations. The Research Council of Lithuania (RCL) was represented by Dr Vaiva Priudokienė, Head of the Research Evaluation and Data Analytics Division, and Miglė Palujanskaitė, Programme Coordinator at the International Cooperation Division.
The workshop was organised as part of the implementation of the Lithuania–Taiwan cooperation agreements, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 22 September 2023 between the Research Council of Lithuania (RCL) and Taiwan's National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) on the joint funding of Lithuanian–Taiwanese research projects.
New Ideas and Stronger Scientific Ties
One of the key themes of the workshop was exploring new partnership opportunities. Researchers who had not previously participated in projects under the Lithuania–Taiwan cooperation programme presented their recent scientific work and ideas for future research. The workshop offered them an opportunity to establish connections with colleagues from the other country, identify shared research interests and begin developing ideas for future bilateral projects.
The workshop also provided an opportunity to discuss the research objectives, initial results and implementation experiences of newly launched and ongoing Lithuania–Taiwan projects. Leaders of completed projects presented their findings and shared insights into potential directions for further research. Such meetings not only provide an opportunity to assess the progress achieved but also facilitate the exchange of experience that can contribute to more effective planning of future research activities.
Particular attention was devoted to showcasing Lithuania's laser technology ecosystem. Taiwanese researchers were introduced to the development of Lithuania's laser industry, its major achievements, research infrastructure and companies operating in the sector. This exchange provided a deeper understanding of the expertise available in both countries and helped identify opportunities to translate joint research outcomes into practical applications.
Cooperation Creating Long-Term Value
The workshop demonstrated the continued strengthening of cooperation between Lithuania and Taiwan in laser technologies. A total of 12 bilateral projects have already been launched or completed. From the beginning of next year, some projects will be eligible for a one-year extension, providing researchers with additional opportunities to build on their results and bring them closer to potential commercialisation.
This cooperation is important not only for advancing scientific knowledge and technological development. It also strengthens international research networks, encourages the exchange of expertise, creates new opportunities for early-career researchers and supports the development of solutions that can contribute to industrial innovation and the growth of high-tech industries. In the longer term, closer partnerships between Lithuania and Taiwan could help accelerate the translation of research results into practical solutions and enhance the competitiveness of both countries in the international laser technology market.
It was particularly symbolic that this year's workshop took place in Lithuania as the country marks 60 years of achievements in laser technologies. Decades of accumulated knowledge, scientific expertise and close cooperation between academia and industry have helped establish Lithuania as an internationally recognised centre of excellence in laser technologies. Today, Lithuania's experience not only strengthens its position globally but also provides a foundation for new international partnerships. Cooperation with Taiwan demonstrates how knowledge sharing, relationships built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to developing advanced technologies can open up even broader opportunities for research and innovation.
The Research Council of Lithuania extends its sincere gratitude to the workshop organisers – Dr Romualdas Trusovas, Dr Gediminas Račiukaitis and Prof. Yen-Chieh Huang – as well as the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC) and the Lithuanian Laser Association for their initiative and significant contribution to strengthening scientific cooperation between Lithuania and Taiwan.
We also thank all workshop participants for their open exchange of knowledge, inspiring discussions and ambitious ideas that may pave the way for new discoveries. It is this shared curiosity, mutual trust and commitment to innovation that make lasting partnerships possible. The ideas developed together today have the potential to become tomorrow's advanced technologies and deliver meaningful results for both countries.
Last updated: 22-10-2026
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