China Approves New China-Cuba Neurotech Belt and Road Initiative Lab

China’s Ministry of Science and Technology approved the establishment of the China-Cuba Joint Laboratory within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The laboratory will focus on neurotechnology and brain-machine interaction. With the approval, the China-Cuba Joint Laboratory will be able to expand collaboration to other BRI member nations.

It represents a new milestone in the biomedical sector in scientific-technical cooperation between Cuba’s Neuroscience Center and China’s University of Science and Technology Electronics. The laboratory will focus on neurotechnology research, brain-inspired artificial intelligence (AI) and non-invasive techniques such as electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging. It aims to become an international reference center for brain health.

The China-Cuba project, a bridge of scientific cooperation between the two and other Latin American countries will create new alliances in brain science and AI. It will also promote training of talent in international collaboration, as well as implementing the research results in the BRI countries.

Its objectives include the strengthening of the global platform WeBrain. WeBrain is fosters collaboration in the neurosciences and organization of high-level international academic events. In addition, it promotes the training of science and technology experts and capacity building in large-scale international projects.

This is the third joint laboratory approved under the Belt and Road Initiative. The other projects include the China-Croatia Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services and the China-New Zealand Kiwifruit Research.

The Ministry of Science and Technology described the laboratories as the most advanced platforms for international technological innovation. As a result, it will strengthen scientific cooperation among participating countries in the BRI.

Pedro Valdés-Sosa, Cuban neuroscientist and a resident of China for 10 years, is one of the major drivers of this Belt and Road project. He said that since 2015, the China-Cuba Joint Laboratory of Neurotechnology has trained students from both countries and other member nations of the BRI.