Researchers and innovators from Tunisia will now be able to participate in Horizon 2020, the EU's framework programme for research and innovation, under the same conditions as their counterparts from EU Member States and other 13 associated countries. The agreement associating Tunisia to Horizon 2020 is being signed today by Carlos Moedas, European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, and Chiheb Bouden, Tunisian Minister for High Education and Scientific Research.
Commissioner Moedas said: "I am pleased to welcome Tunisia into Horizon 2020, the biggest programme for research and innovation of the world. This agreement is a historical one. It shows that through research and innovation, the EU is supporting the young Tunisian democracy and helping to invest in knowledge as a foundation of future development. Tunisia's accession also shows how a research policy open to the world can bring novel ideas and enrich our common research efforts."
The Association Agreement allows for enhanced cooperation in research and innovation between the EU and Tunisia, vital for successful and modern economies. It also represents another step towards reaching the EU goal of opening research and innovation to the world.
Tunisian research institutes, universities and individual researchers will now have access to all opportunities offered by Horizon 2020 that funds diverse scientific areas, from blue sky research to demonstration projects. Tunisian SMEs and businesses will also be able to benefit from increased support to develop new ideas and bring products and services to the market.
Source: European Commission