The EU and New Zealand sign an agreement for the participation of New Zealand in European programmes like Horizon Europe

The European Union and New Zealand have today signed an agreement for the participation of New Zealand in EU Programmes. The agreement creates a long-lasting legal framework that regulates the terms and conditions for New Zealand’s participation in European programmes, including its involvement in the governance structures and its financial contribution. The agreement opens the doors to New Zealand’s participation in the framework programme for research and innovation Horizon Europe (2021-2027).

New Zealand and the European Union have a long history of cooperation in the field of research. With this agreement we want to make a step forward to support our research and innovation communities and our respective economic sectors, but also to contribute to science progress in areas that matter to the whole planet.

Diana Morant Ripoll, Spanish Minister for Science and Innovation

New Zealand and the EU will cooperate in research projects related to climate change and carbon-neutrality but also in other areas such as big data, precision agriculture, sustainable energy, earthquake research and industrial innovation.

The agreement is expected to boost bilateral cooperation in research and innovation. The EU is New Zealand’s most significant regional science and innovation partner, with more than half of New Zealand’s researchers regularly engaged in active collaborations with EU partners. Around 4 000 businesses in New Zealand perform research and development activities, with many more engaging in innovation. New Zealand has 8 Universities, 7 Crown Research Institutes, and several independent research organisations.

Background

New Zealand and the European Union have a history of fruitful cooperation in research and innovation. New Zealand researchers could participate in the previous two Framework Programmes for Research and Innovation - the FP7 and Horizon 2020. Many New Zealand researchers have come to Europe with Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) funding and New Zealand shows excellent figures in terms of participation under Horizon 2020, with 77 funded projects.

Next steps

The Union and New Zealand may apply the agreement provisionally in accordance with their respective internal procedures and legislation. Provisional application will begin on the date on which both parties have notified each other of the completion of their internal procedures.