India and the European Union conclude talks on joining the Horizon Europe programme

A historic step has been taken in the field of scientific and technical cooperation in New Delhi. Negotiations between India and the European Union (EU) to join the Horizon Europe program have been concluded. This program is the EU’s largest global research and innovation initiative, which will now provide Indian institutions and researchers with the opportunity to participate actively. These negotiations between the two sides had been ongoing for several months, with the aim of making India a full Associate Member of this prominent global research platform.

Under this agreement, Indian universities, national research institutions, and private sector companies will now be able to contract for various projects under Horizon Europe. Previously, Indian researchers could participate only as collaborators, which limited their role in overall research management and financial control. With full membership, Indian researchers and institutions will now have equal rights in the operation of research projects, budget management, and the utilization of results.

EU representatives stated on this occasion that India is a vast scientific market and innovation hub, and India’s prominent role in Horizon Europe will be beneficial for both sides. They specifically reaffirmed their commitment to promoting joint research in the areas of climate change, health, agriculture, digital technology, and energy. India also welcomed this agreement, which is expected to further strengthen the prestige of Indian science in the global research community.

Currently, the Horizon Europe program includes more than 30 countries and regions, with a total budget estimated in the billions of euros. Under this program, hundreds of research proposals are funded annually. India’s participation in this program will provide Indian young researchers with a valuable opportunity to gain international experience and collaborate with European experts.

Notably, India and the European Union are also engaged in intensive negotiations in several other areas, including trade, security, and climate change. Joining Horizon Europe will emerge as a key medium to deepen these bilateral relations at the scientific and technical level. In the coming period, the process of selecting and implementing joint research projects by both sides will be accelerated so that research results can be put into practical use as soon as possible. This development marks a new chapter in India’s scientific policy and international cooperation.