This work proposes a different approach of International Cooperation on the Brazilian scientific and technological (S&T) development process, based on the case of the cooperation among Brazil and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). The studies lead to a suggestion of a new strategic approach of a system beginning starting at activities of international S&T interchange and collaborations as initial stage that lead to International Cooperation, seen as the only one capable of directly create S&T development. The case of the Brazilian activities at CERN shows that International Cooperation generates S&T development only with long term assured financial and institutional arrangements between Universities and Industries, supported by government policies and programs. The results point to the assumption that International Cooperation is an essential element for elaboration and execution of public policies that aim national development on science and technology.This work proposes a different approach of International Cooperation on the Brazilian scientific and technological (S&T) development process, based on the case of the cooperation among Brazil and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). The studies lead to a suggestion of a new strategic approach of a system beginning starting at activities of international S&T interchange and collaborations as initial stage that lead to International Cooperation, seen as the only one capable of directly create S&T development. The case of the Brazilian activities at CERN shows that International Cooperation generates S&T development only with long term assured financial and institutional arrangements between Universities and Industries, supported by government policies and programs. The results point to the assumption that International Cooperation is an essential element for elaboration and execution of public policies that aim national development on science and technology.Este trabalho propõe uma abordagem diferente da Cooperação Internacional no processo de desenvolvimento científico e tecnológico brasileiro, tendo como base a cooperação entre o Brasil e a Organização Européia para Pesquisa Nuclear (CERN). Os estudos levam a uma visão estratégica de um ciclo que envolve intercâmbio e colaborações científicas internacionais como etapas iniciais que levam à Cooperação Internacional (CI), esta última verdadeiramente capaz de gerar desenvolvimento científico. O estudo da participação brasileira no CERN mostra que a CI só gera desenvolvimento científico se contar com a participação do Estado para garantir investimentos e apoio institucional aos cientistas brasileiros no longo prazo. Assim a CI torna-se elemento indispensável para a elaboração e execução de políticas públicas que vislumbrem o desenvolvimento científico e tecnológico nacional.