Kazakhstan intends to become an associated country of the European research and innovation programme Horizon Europe. It provides funding for research and helps scientists from different countries work together to develop new technologies. Experts note that obtaining such status would allow Kazakh universities, research organizations and companies to participate more extensively in international projects and attract even more European funding. An official request has already been sent to the European Commission. The sides are currently discussing the terms of cooperation. Meanwhile, Kazakh scientists and companies are already participating in the programme. The number of proposals has increased significantly in recent years. While 15 proposals were submitted in 2023, the number has now risen to almost 200. Over the past year alone, around 1.77 million euros in grants have been secured for advanced research. In Astana, representatives of universities, research organizations, businesses and European experts discussed preparations for the 2027 calls. Participants were briefed on how to find international partners, form joint research teams and secure funding for their projects.
«There are funding instruments covering everything from fundamental research to innovative projects and funding for startups and global companies. Kazakhstan currently has a number of agreements on rare earth metals, and this year, two agreements specifically in the field of rare earth metals were signed. In the field of medicine and healthcare, Kazakhstan’s organizations have also received funding. Artificial intelligence is also a new area for the European Union, and regardless of the priorities of the proposals, AI is now a mandatory component of Horizon Europe proposals,» noted Aliya Sembayeva, National Coordinator for Horizon Europe in Kazakhstan.
«Today’s focus is on critical raw materials. Kazakhstan has critical raw materials. Building trust is legislative predictability, which is very important. This event today, this conference provides opportunity to exchanging views, finding new partners, and building trust needed for ensuring proper development and cooperation in this field,» said Marius Puodžiūnas, Political Officer, Political, Press and Information Section, Delegation of the European Union to Kazakhstan.
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