EU proposes first research partnership in the Mediterranean to increase food and water sustainability
October 18, 2016
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The European Commission presented today a proposal for a Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area – PRIMA. The first partnership of its kind in the Mediterranean basin aiming to develop much-needed novel solutions for sustainable water management and food production.
“EU research and innovation is open to the world so we can tackle global challenges together. This Euro-Mediterranean partnership is an excellent example of where pooling knowledge and money can make a huge difference. It will bring more clean water and food to the people, boost local economies and create jobs. Through PRIMA, research and innovation will play a crucial role in addressing the root causes of migration,” said EU Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation Carlos Moedas.
The Commission’s proposal already includes Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Egypt, France, Greece, Israel, Italy, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Malta, Morocco, Portugal, Spain and Tunisia. The participation of Germany is currently under negotiation. As the initiative is evolving over time, more participants are expected to follow, both EU and non-EU countries.
Funding for the EUR 400 million partnership will come from the participating countries (currently around EUR 200 million), matched by a EUR 200 million contribution from the EU through its current research framework programme Horizon 2020. The partnership is scheduled to run for 10 years, starting in 2018. (EU Neighbourhood Info)