On 3 February 2025, IIASA had the honor of welcoming H.E. Ambassador José Antonio Zabalgoitia, Permanent Representative of the United Mexican States to the International Organizations in Vienna. The visit marked an important step in reinforcing the longstanding relationship between IIASA and Mexico in addressing global challenges through scientific collaboration.
© IIASA H.E. Amb. Jose Antonio Zabalgoitia, Permanent Representative of the United Mexican States to the International Organizations in Vienna, met with IIASA Director General Hans Joachim Schellnhuber
Hosted by IIASA Director General Hans Joachim (John) Schellnhuber, the visit provided an opportunity to highlight the Institute's interdisciplinary research efforts and explore avenues for future engagement. Following a warm welcome, Schellnhuber presented an overview of IIASA's mission and its ongoing collaboration with Mexico.
During an open discussion, participants reflected on the Institute's past contributions to scientific research in Mexico, including projects focused on climate resilience, sustainable land use, and energy transitions. The meeting underscored the shared commitment of both IIASA and Mexico to leveraging systems analysis in tackling complex socio-environmental challenges.
The visit concluded with the signing of the IIASA guest book. The discussions reaffirmed the mutual interest in deepening collaborations and fostering partnerships that contribute to sustainable development and evidence-based policymaking.
The ambassador was accompanied by José Manuel Castañeda, Counsellor, and Antonio Tenorio, Counsellor for Science, Innovation, Art and Technology, while Schellnhuber was joined by IIASA Deputy Director General, Karen Lips, Guest Research Scholar in the Advancing Systems Analysis Program, Sergio O. Saldaña-Zorrilla, Research Scholar in the Biodiversity and Natural Resources Program, Zuelclady Araujo Gutierrez, and Science Diplomacy Officer, Sergey Sizov.
