Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for Science & Research, introduced Leshner and in a statement issued before the event, he said the deepening relationship could advance science and global well-being. "The science community needs to constantly engage with all interested stakeholders and their challenge is to communicate science effectively ... International S&T cooperation has rightfully gained prominence for bettering relations with the world while addressing common global challenges. We at the European Commission welcome such platforms to explain what the JRC and others are doing to help create a safer, cleaner, healthier and more competitive Europe." The two-day engagement was the latest sign that the 27-member European Union intends to strengthen and expand its commitment to science and technology. Full Article at American Assoc. for the Advancement of Science