The Chinese Government Friendship Award is the highest honour bestowed by the People’s Republic of China on foreign experts who have made exceptional contributions to the country’s economic, social, and scientific development.
The 2025 awards ceremony took place on 30 September 2025 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, under the auspices of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security (State Administration of Foreign Experts Affairs). The event was attended by senior members of the Chinese government, including ministers, vice-ministers, and representatives of national institutions, coinciding with China’s National Day celebrations.
This year, 50 foreign experts from 27 countries were recognised with the Friendship Award for their outstanding achievements across diverse fields — including science, technology, politics, and industry. Among the honourees, only four academicians were selected for their exceptional contributions to science and technology.
Among the distinguished recipients, the European Academy of Sciences (EurASc) is proud to highlight Prof. Rodrigo Ferrão de Paiva Martins, President of EurASc, Coordinator of i3N, Full Professor at NOVA School of Science and Technology (NOVA FCT) and coordinator of the Association NANOMAT . His recognition represents a historic moment for Portugal and for European science.
Prof. Martins was joined by other eminent figures from the global scientific community, including Prof. Donald Dingwell, President of the Academia Europaea and member of SAPEA (Science Advice for Policy by European Academies), and Prof. Rui Martins, Vice-Rector of the University of Macau.
In addition to receiving the award, Prof. Rodrigo Martins was invited to deliver a speech on behalf of the international science and technology community, addressing collaboration, innovation, and the role of science in fostering mutual understanding and sustainable progress.
The ceremony concluded with a state banquet hosted by H.E. President Xi Jinping, attended by the Prime Minister of China, members of the diplomatic corps, and over 3,000 guests, celebrating international cooperation and shared humankind social, scientific and technology values.
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EurASc warmly congratulates Prof. Rodrigo Martins on this remarkable international recognition, which honours not only his lifelong contributions to science and technology but also the Academy’s mission to foster excellence and global collaboration for the benefit of society.
