Representatives from EU member states, the European Commission and associated countries met in Nicosia on 15 and 16 April for a meeting of the European Research Area and Innovation Committee, held during Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU.
According to the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy, participants exchanged views on key aspects of the next framework programme for research and innovation.
Particular emphasis was placed on guiding principles for effective priority-setting in the sector, as well as on strengthening coordination in strategic planning.
Discussions also focused on the links between the proposed European Competitiveness Fund and the upcoming framework programme for research and innovation, FP10.
Scientific diplomacy
The meeting provided direction for next steps aimed at improving alignment in priority-setting and enhancing long-term strategic planning across the EU’s research and innovation landscape. The importance of scientific diplomacy also emerged as a key policy area.
The European Commission presented its “Open and Secure Science” package, including a proposal for a Council recommendation on a European framework for scientific diplomacy.
According to the announcement, the initiative responds to a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment in which research and innovation are increasingly linked to competitiveness, as well as economic and research security and geopolitical influence.
As part of the programme, the Cypriot Presidency invited Costas Papanicolas as keynote speaker. He delivered a presentation titled “Regional Scientific Diplomacy in an Era of Geopolitical Realignment and Strategic Competition”.
Papanicolas highlighted the importance of science-based cooperation as a platform for dialogue and coordinated action, particularly in regions facing shared challenges such as climate change.
Participants described the exchange of views as constructive and productive, stressing the need for coordinated approaches in research and innovation policy.
The statement concluded by underlining the significant role of ERAC in shaping the EU’s strategic direction and policymaking in the field.
CNA