HarSval 2024

The implementation of the predefined project Cryosphere Integrated Observatory Network on Svalbard (CRIOS) has had a positive impact on the integration of the Polish polar research community and the strengthening of bilateral relations with Norway. Building on the experiences and accomplishments initiated in the project, it would be beneficial to continue and broaden ‒ under the Fund for Bilateral Relations ‒ the promising bilateral activities, as a predefined initiative implemented by the Polish-Norwegian partnership. The planned activities have the ambition to increase the range of research and to involve a much broader range of partners. The Polish-Norwegian cooperation will be also exploited to enhance competencies and skills, as well as achieve internalisation and increased visibility of the Polish polar community. The new bilateral initiative fits perfectly into the objectives of the EEA and Norway Grants, supporting an important area of Polish basic research conducted by the Polish polar community and significantly strengthening bilateral relations between Poland and Norway in this area. Polar research requires significant financial means that are difficult to obtain from national sources and international cooperation, especially Polish-Norwegian. Hence, polar research is a priority in the Basic Research Programme. Proposed timeframe: 12 months from March 1, 2024 The following activities aiming at strengthening bilateral relations between Norway and Poland, networking, exchange, sharing and transfer of knowledge, technology, experience and best practice between entities in Poland and entities in Norway were defined by the Polish Polar Consortium in cooperation with Norwegian partners. Participation of Norwegian partners is confirmed by letters of intent.