The European Commission and the Swiss Government have reached a major milestone by concluding negotiations on Switzerland's association with Horizon Europe and the Euratom research and training programme. This development reinforces the long-standing collaboration between the EU and Switzerland in research and innovation.
Key Highlights:
- Agreement Overview:
Switzerland will be associated with all three pillars of Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship programme for research and innovation, and the Euratom research and training programme.- Signing Timeline: The agreement is set to be signed in 2025, pending necessary validations.
Official Statement:
Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commissioner for Startups, Research, and Innovation, emphasized the importance of this agreement:“Switzerland’s association to Horizon Europe and the Euratom programmes brings the long-standing cooperation between Switzerland and the European Union to a higher level. This strengthened cooperation will enable European research and innovation communities to benefit from a wider pool of talents and scientific excellence. I welcome this very positive development, which in turn improves Europe’s resilience, prosperity, competitiveness and well-being.”
What Does This Mean?
- Swiss researchers and organizations will gain access to funding and participate in the Horizon Europe programme on equal terms with EU Member States.
- The association ensures a closer international collaboration, promoting innovation, competitiveness, and scientific excellence.
Background:
Switzerland has been a key partner of the EU in research and innovation since 1987, actively participating in various European programmes, including:
- CERN
- European Space Agency
- COST
- EUREKA
Switzerland was previously associated with Horizon 2020 and the Euratom research and training programme (2020-2024).
Next Steps:
- Completion of necessary validations on both sides.
- Signing of the agreement expected in 2025.
More Information:
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