By Andrea Hargraves 
The Planetarium – Casa da Ciência de Braga was the scene of the “Café de Ciência” session, which brought together leaders and experts from various fields to explore the role of “soft power” of science in society and diplomacy.
Braga City Council President Ricardo Río participated in the event, highlighting the city's “commitment to innovation and scientific development as drivers of progress and social cohesion.”
The mayor stressed the importance of initiatives such as these “to strengthen the scientific cooperation network in Braga and enhance the city’s role as a center of innovation and excellent research.” Ricardo Rio noted that in times of global challenges, “science plays a vital role in bringing nations together and promoting sustainable development.”
The meeting included several personalities, such as Ambassador Eugenio Anacurita Correa, President of the General Council of the University of Aberta, Eugenio Campos Ferreira, Vice Rector for Research and Innovation at the University of Minho, or Nuno Souza, neuroscientist and head of the school. Medicine from Minho University.
The session moderated by Rosalía Vargas, President of the Centros de Ciência Viva Network, opened a dialogue on how science can be a tool for cultural and diplomatic influence.
The event, which witnessed a discussion between academics, scientists, diplomats and journalists, discussed the power of science in building positive international relations and strengthening society to confront current challenges.
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