File Photo: Horizon Europe. Photo courtesy of Luxinnovation website.
The move grants Egyptian researchers, universities, and innovators full access to all components of the programme, on equal terms with EU member states, enabling them to lead projects, contribute to cutting-edge scientific research, and advance national innovation reforms, the EU commission said in a statement.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the agreement underscores the EU’s commitment to fostering people-centred partnerships.
“People are at the core of the EU–Egypt partnership, supporting them to develop their talents, ideas, and skills,” von der Leyen said.
“Egypt’s association to Horizon Europe will create opportunities for cutting-edge projects and innovations in vital areas like water management, sustainable farming, and food security, bringing tangible benefits to our societies,” the statement read.
The EU Commission said the step marks a new milestone in the long-standing EU–Egypt cooperation, paving the way for deeper partnerships on global challenges such as digital transformation and climate action.
It also expands Egypt’s participation in the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA), which focuses on improving water management, sustainable farming, and food value chains.
Egypt has been a trusted partner in research collaboration with the EU, the Union for the Mediterranean, and the African Union, building on the 2005 EU–Egypt Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement, the statement said.
In April 2025, both sides concluded negotiations on Egypt’s association to Horizon Europe, reaffirming their shared commitment to regional and international scientific advancement.
With a budget of €93.5 billion for 2021–2027, Horizon Europe is the EU’s largest funding programme for research and innovation, supporting efforts to tackle climate change, achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and boost global competitiveness.
To date, 21 countries are associated with Horizon Europe l, including EU neighbours, candidate countries, and other partners fulfilling the programme’s eligibility criteria
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