Walloon parliament unanimously backs the Einstein Telescope

The resolution in which the Walloon Parliament expresses its support for hosting the Einstein Telescope in the Euroregion Meuse-Rhine (EMR) was adopted unanimously. With this decision, Wallonia has sent a strong signal in support of bringing the underground telescope project to the region.

What opportunities?

On the Walloon side as well, the Einstein Telescope is seen as an exceptional opportunity to sustainably strengthen Wallonia’s position as one of Europe’s leading regions for innovation, research, and advanced technologies. The project is expected to create industrial opportunities for Walloon companies and, in turn, generate jobs.

To prepare for these opportunities, a Walloon task force was launched at the end of last year. It brings together representatives from the scientific community, innovative businesses, and public authorities. Through this task force, Wallonia is actively involved in cross-border cooperation with the Einstein Telescope EMR project office, which is assessing the project’s feasibility, as well as in ministerial-level collaboration.

Unanimous

During discussions on the resolution, support proved unanimous. The Walloon Government had previously earmarked €200 million should the Einstein Telescope be built in this Euroregion. Other candidates to host the scientific infrastructure include Sardinia and Saxony.

Of national importance

Following the Flemish Parliament and the House of Representatives, the Walloon Parliament has now also adopted a draft resolution supporting the candidacy of the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion. In the Netherlands, two successive governments have designated the Einstein Telescope as a “project of national importance.”

Local authorities

During a meeting of Walloon mayors from the Verviers region last Friday, participants were updated on the latest developments concerning the telescope project. The announcement of the unanimously adopted resolution was met with strong approval.