Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
The European Union and New Zealand today signed an agreement for New Zealand's participation in European Union programmes. According to a European statement, of which we received a copy, the agreement establishes a long-term legal framework regulating the terms and conditions of New Zealand's participation in European programmes, including its participation in governance structures and its financial contribution. The agreement opens the doors to New Zealand's participation in the Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Framework Program (2021-2027).

“New Zealand and the European Union have a long history of cooperation in research. With this agreement we want to take a step forward to support our research and innovation communities and our economic sectors, but also to contribute to scientific progress in areas that matter to the entire planet.”
According to what was quoted in the statement, Diana Morante Ripoll, the Spanish Minister of Science and Innovation, whose country holds the current rotating presidency of the Federation
New Zealand and the EU will collaborate on 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 enhance bilateral cooperation in research and innovation. The European Union is New Zealand's most important regional science and innovation partner, with more than half of New Zealand researchers regularly engaged in active collaboration with EU partners. About 4,000 companies in New Zealand carry out research and development activities, with many companies involved in innovation. New Zealand has 8 universities, 7 research institutes affiliated with the Crown, and many independent research organisations.