As 2025 draws to a close and we look ahead to 2026, I would like to extend my sincerest wishes to all members of the ANSO community and their families for a year marked by good health, happiness, and prosperity.

The year 2025 has witnessed the global scientific and innovation landscape facing pressing challenges that call for coordinated efforts and accelerated scientific advancement—ranging from growing knowledge disparities to increasing demands in green energy, food security, public health, and other critical areas—particularly in regions of the Global South, where resources and institutional capacities remain constrained. At the same time, the international community continues to grapple with the complex task of governing emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence.

ANSO has responded by reinforcing collaboration and building capacity in areas of greatest need. In 2025, we welcomed 19 new members, expanding our network to 96 institutions across 59 countries and 9 international organizations. We convened the 4th General Assembly, as well as the 10th and 11th Governing Board Meetings, and established the International Research Network on AI Development and Governance, uniting researchers and organizations to ensure that artificial intelligence supports sustainable development and benefits all of humanity. Additionally, we launched the ANSO-affiliated Alliance of Innovative Enterprises to accelerate the transformation of scientific achievements into practical solutions that address real-world challenges.

A highlight of the year was our work in Africa. In September, we launched two significant initiatives in Ethiopia: the ANSO Africa Hub of Science & Innovation, which has been approved by UNESCO as a programme under the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development, and the Africa Office of the ANSO Secretariat. Together, these initiatives promote equitable access to knowledge and skills, advance the integration of science, technology, and industrial innovation across Africa, and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the G20 Initiative on International Cooperation in Open Science, and the African Union's Agenda 2063, while enhancing people's livelihoods.

Looking ahead to 2026, we will further deepen these initiatives. ANSO will strengthen its role as a global catalyst for science and technology collaboration. We will enhance the ANSO Africa Hub of Science & Innovation, and launch collaborative programs in strategically significant areas. To support these efforts, we will facilitate the appointment of International Science Advisors and Ambassadors in key regions, and introduce the ANSO Science Awards to recognize exceptional contributions toward our shared future.

Together as an alliance, let us make 2026 a year defined by collaboration and shared impact.

Happy New Year!

Prof. LIU Weidong

Executive Director

ANSO