For almost five decades, the national metrology institutes of Colombia and Germany, the INM and PTB, have been closely collaborating on metrology on behalf of their respective countries and have achieved significant milestones in the scientific field.
Since its inception, this alliance has sustained metrology as a fundamental pillar for the quality infrastructure that contributes to the improvement of competitiveness and productivity. At the same time, this alliance has strengthened the training of Colombian metrologists whose skills and knowledge have driven innovation and scientific progress.
The cooperation between PTB and the INM has now reached a new dimension. Against the backdrop of the energy transition and the deepening of relations between the European Union and Latin America, the Director of the INM, María del Rosario González Márquez, visited PTB in Germany from 14 to 18 August 2023 (cover photo). The visit was also used as an opportunity to reaffirm the mutual commitment to promoting internationally recognised quality infrastructure in the field of measurement and calibration capabilities that meets the daily challenges of society.
The highlight of this historic visit was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the President of PTB, Prof. Dr Cornelia Denz, and María del Rosario González in presence of the Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia in Germany, Yadir Salazar-Mejía. This strategic agreement aligns with Colombia’s National Development Plan 2022-2026 and strengthens cooperation in crucial areas. The Memorandum also marks a step forward in the joint pursuit of solid quality infrastructure for the hydrogen industry, a common objective that emerged during a binational dialogue between academics and industries from Colombia and Germany in December 2022.
Currently, PTB’s International Cooperation group and the partners in Colombia are preparing the eighth cooperation project. The aim of this project is to promote quality infrastructure in Colombia for the circular economy and energy transition. During the visit of the Colombian delegation, there were intensive discussions on technical and strategic issues with the experts in the laboratories and working groups.
Almost half a century of cooperation between Colombia and Germany in metrology has stimulated innovation and scientific development. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding and the continued collaboration reflect the commitment of both nations to scientific excellence and sustainable progress, laying the foundation for a future where metrology continues to drive the advancement of industry and quality in both regions.
Images © PTB/Fotografie
