Malta has formally begun the process of securing associate membership with CERN, following an official visit to Switzerland by Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima, accompanied by Xjenza Malta. The visit, made at CERN’s invitation, marks what the Ministry described as the first significant step towards a closer affiliation with one of the world’s leading scientific research institutions.

Minister Grima said that Malta’s intention to pursue associate membership reflects a national strategic vision to strengthen research, innovation and STEAM education. He emphasised that Malta is currently one of only two EU member states not linked to CERN, and that this step begins the official journey to change that.

“I am at CERN with one goal: to open doors for more research and innovation in Malta,” Grima said. “This is the first step in a national vision that connects our brightest minds with world-class scientists, and ensures that Malta has a direct voice in the development of future technologies. For Maltese researchers, educators, and students, this is not just a symbolic move but a strategic investment in their future.”

The Ministry said associate membership would give Malta access to international-level research opportunities, global scientific networks, capacity-building programmes, and specialised training pathways. It would also allow Maltese researchers to participate more directly in major scientific projects and support the development of advanced skills in the fields of physics, engineering, computing and related technologies.

Malta’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and other international organisations in Geneva, Randolph Debattista, said the response from CERN during the visit was encouraging.

“There is great enthusiasm within CERN to see Malta being affiliated as an associated member,” Debattista said. “As we could see during our visit, this will be a historic step for Maltese researchers—not only to participate, but to lead projects within the largest research centre in the world.”

Xjenza Malta, which accompanied the Minister on the visit, will play a central role in coordinating Malta’s scientific and research engagement with CERN. Its Chief Executive Officer Silvio Scerri described the visit as the foundation of a long-term relationship.

“This visit serves as a foundation for much closer collaboration with CERN,” Scerri said. “Although we are still in the early stages, it is an opportunity to pave the way for scientific and innovative growth for Maltese talent.”

The Ministry said several follow-up steps will now be undertaken as Malta works towards submitting the necessary applications and documentation required for associate membership.