“Historical” deal as Tunisia joins H2020
Tunisian scientists are set to benefit from Horizon 2020 on a par with EU member states following the signing of a bilateral association agreement.
The deal will be signed by Carlos Moedas, European Commissioner for research, Science and Innovation and Chaudhary Bouden, Tunisian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Prior to the signing ceremony, the Moedas said: “I am pleased to welcome Tunisia into Horizon 2020, the biggest programme for research and innovation in 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 co-operation in R&I and sees Tunisian research institutes, universities, businesses and individual researchers have access to the opportunities and funds of Horizon 2020 in fields ranging from blue sky research to demonstration projects. In addition, Tunisian SMEs and companies will be able to benefit from increased support to develop new ideas and bring products and services to the market.
The agreement should enter into force starting in 2016, after the ratification by the Tunisian Parliament.
