India and EU conclude negotiations for Horizon Europe research programme
The agreement allows Indian researchers to access a Euro 93.5 billion fund for scientific and technological collaboration.
India and the European Union have finished talks regarding New Delhi's association with the Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, according to The Hindu. The Euro 93.5 billion flagship programme aims to expand collaboration under the existing strategic partnership between the two sides.
Once the formal agreement is signed and necessary procedures are finished, Indian organisations will be able to lead collaborative projects and receive direct funding. This includes participation in Pillar II, which focuses on 'Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness' to address issues like health, space, climate, and energy.
The EU stated that this association is the most significant form of cooperation available to non-EU nations. It enables participating countries to work on equal terms with EU counterparts, provided they provide financial contributions to the programme.
This development occurs shortly before the two sides are expected to finalise a free trade agreement. The negotiations for the Horizon programme began formally in July, following exploratory talks that started in February 2026.
The two sides are expected to sign the formal association agreement in January. This scientific cooperation builds upon a previous agreement from 2001 that has been renewed until 2030.