Since last Thursday, Japan is officially associated with Horizon Europe, the flagship research and innovation program of the EU, aimed at addressing global challenges, accelerating the clean and digital transitions, contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthening Europe’s competitiveness and growth.
With a population of 123 million inhabitants, Japan is the most populous country associated with the program and adds one of the most advanced research and innovation ecosystems in the world to the European scientific cooperation network.
The agreement allows Japanese organizations and researchers to participate in Horizon Europe on equal terms with those from EU member states and other associated countries.
Japan’s participation represents an important step in the EU-Japan Strategic Partnership and highlights the shared commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and international cooperation in open and standards-based research.
The EU and Japan will continue to expand cooperation to address common global challenges, particularly in digital transition, health, and technologies that support climate neutrality.
The Commissioner for Emerging Enterprises, Research and Innovation, Ekaterina Zaharieva, stated that “science thrives when talent, ideas, and innovation cross borders. As the twenty-third associated country of Horizon Europe, Japan strengthens a growing global community that believes that openness, excellence, and international cooperation are essential to turning research into innovation and innovation into prosperity.”
