Lithuanian Laser Association and Czech Optical Cluster Sign Memorandum of Understanding

On 6 November, Vilnius hosted the international workshop “Photonics Frontiers: Building Stronger Ecosystems Together”, which brought together laser technology experts from Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Ukraine. During the event, representatives from science and industry discussed how laser and photonics ecosystems can drive innovation, foster growth, and strengthen international cooperation.

One of the key moments of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Lithuanian Laser Association (LLA) and the Czech Optical Cluster. These organizations unite more than 60 and 45 institutions respectively, active in the fields of laser and photonics technologies.

“This is a step towards a more structured approach – one that enables research results to reach practical application more quickly. It is important to ensure that this infrastructure is maintained and that cooperation between science, business and policy continues to grow,” says Dr Gediminas Račiukaitis, Head of the Department of Laser Technologies at the Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (FTMC), and President of the LLA.

This international workshop continues the activities of the LASER-PRO project (Excellent Laser Technologies for the Sustainable Prosperity of Europe), launched in March this year. The ambitious initiative brings together 18 partners from Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Ukraine. The consortium is led by the Czech research centre HiLASE and FTMC.

“The aim of the project is for at least two ecosystems to collaborate in a way that delivers tangible benefits,” emphasizes Dr Račiukaitis.

According to him, the Czech Republic is particularly interesting for Lithuania as a manufacturing-oriented country with a strong automotive glass industry – a field where Lithuanian laser technologies can be applied.

“This is a valuable opportunity to enter the Czech industrial market – both for the FTMC and for the entire Lithuanian laser ecosystem. At the same time, Lithuania is also of interest to the Czech side – they are eager to learn from our experience,” adds the physicist.

To ensure effective cooperation, the LASER-PRO initiative also involves the Lithuanian Innovation Centre, the Innovation Agency Lithuania, and other partners. One of the project’s objectives is to support Ukrainian colleagues in successfully integrating into the European innovation ecosystem.

“We assist our Ukrainian partners both financially and through mentoring. The war will end one day, but these connections will remain,” says Dr Račiukaitis.

Info: FTMC