RefreSCAR was pleased to support the recent SCAR ARCH Working Group meeting, held in Brussels on 2^nd June, which brought together members for a productive and forward-looking discussion on agricultural research and innovation priorities.

The meeting included an update from the European Commission, discussions on the future direction of the group, and an engaging exchange on potential topics and priorities for the next mandate.

A highlight of the meeting was a presentation by Nienke Beintema on "Strengthening Africa-EU Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems for Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture (FNSSA): Introducing the AKIS4FNSSA Project". The presentation generated valuable discussion on strengthening cooperation and knowledge exchange between Europe and Africa.

The meeting also marked a transition in the leadership of the SCAR ARCH Working Group. As Siegfried Harrer steps down from his role as co-chair, we would like to thank him for his dedication and contribution to the group over the years and wish him all the very best for the future.
We are also pleased to welcome Katharine Tröger as the newly elected co-chair. Together with Emmanuel Albina, she will help guide the group's work as it prepares for its next mandate.

The discussions in Brussels highlighted the continued importance of collaboration, strategic foresight and international cooperation in shaping the future of agricultural research and innovation.