Europe’s allure as a business destination is elevated through a resilient, just, and transparent trade agenda, essential for fortifying the EU’s standing as a global leader while steadfastly maintaining exceptional standards in climate, environmental, and labour safeguards. European leadership is manifested through intimate collaboration with neighbouring nations, the meticulous execution of a comprehensive strategy for Africa, and the reaffirmation of the European perspective for Western Balkan countries.

The Commission is actively engaged in promoting global cooperation in research and innovation through a range of instruments, including agreements, funding initiatives, strategic endeavours, and partnerships with countries and regions across the world.

Horizon Europe Programme, being one of the strategic tools to enhance EU’s international cooperation, extends opportunities for researchers and innovators on a global scale, with due consideration for potential restrictions as deemed necessary. Namely:

Within the Pillar I “Excellent Science”, researchers have the option to pursue Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships for integration into European research groups or to apply for European Research Council grants facilitating the establishment of a research team in Europe.

In the Pillar II “Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness”, inclusion as partners in collaborative research proposals submitted by research consortia is facilitated.

Moreover, those aspiring to establish a start-up, or Small or Medium-sized Enterprise in Europe can avail themselves of funding through the European Innovation Council under the Pillar III “Innovative Europe”.

The European Union actively participates in bilateral collaboration, establishing Science and Technology Agreements with nations globally and engaging in Regional Dialogues to enhance partnerships. Countries outside the EU can enter into association with the framework programme, enabling them to contribute to the Horizon Europe budget. This participation allows their researchers to engage under conditions similar to those applicable to researchers from EU Member States.

In particular, the association with the Horizon Europe Programme:

1. EFTA members that are members of European Economic Area;
2. Acceding, candidates and potential candidates;
3. European Neighbourhood Policy countries;
4. Third countries
   1. with good STI capacity;
   2. with commitment to a rules based open market economy, including fair and equitable dealing with IPR, respect of human rights, backed by democratic institutions;
   3. that promote policies to improve the economic and social well-being of citizens.

Stay updated on the latest developments and news regarding these efforts on special EC’s website dedicated to fostering global cooperation in research and innovation.

Key information and international cooperation directions within the Horizon Europe Programme can be found in the following presentation.