The central event of the visit was a roundtable involving universities from the Nordic countries and Saudi Arabia, where participants discussed the feasibility of establishing an international circular-economy alliance. The discussions underscored the crucial role of universities in supporting the global green transition: research-based solutions and jointly developed knowledge bases are essential for addressing the challenges of climate change, resource scarcity, and sustainable production. TalTech contributed its expertise and experience, including knowledge on implementing circular-economy solutions and green innovation in industrial and urban environments.

The visit also included dialogues on cooperation between Estonia and Saudi Arabia in clean energy and climate initiatives, as well as presentations positioning Estonia as one of the leading drivers of green innovation and digital solutions in the Nordic and Baltic region. Meetings further focused on energy security, renewable-energy solutions, green hydrogen, and smart cities.

For TalTech, the visit represented an important step in deepening international research cooperation. The university’s academic dinner brought together representatives of Nordic and Middle Eastern universities, creating a platform for developing new partnerships and joint research projects.

According to Rector Tiit Land, the meetings in Saudi Arabia affirmed that universities have a key role in advancing the global green transition and the circular economy. “TalTech’s researchers and knowledge ecosystem provide solutions that help shape a more sustainable future,” Rector Land stated.

The Estonian delegation also met with local research institutions to establish and develop long-term partnerships and joint initiatives.