EU and New Zealand Celebrate Stronger Research Partnership at 1st Joint R&I Committee Meeting

On 18 October 2024, the European Union and New Zealand held their first Joint Research and Innovation (R&I) Committee meeting, following the one-year anniversary of New Zealand’s association with Horizon Europe (in July). 

The association of New Zealand with Horizon Europe, formalized in July 2023, has facilitated closer ties, enabling both sides to tackle key issues like climate change, health, and the digital transition with a more strategic, coordinated approach. One year later, the association has already yielded tangible results. 

Overall, the EU-New Zealand partnership has been highly productive, with New Zealand showing strong participation in Horizon Europe since the launch of the programme, including 24 signed grant agreements, 132 eligible proposals, and a very positive success rate, in line with the program's average. Notably, 28 participants from 12 unique New Zealand organizations have secured over €4 million in EU funding (so far). 

Concrete examples include New Zealand's involvement in projects on environmental sustainability and digital transition, such as the development of climate adaptation technologies and sustainable energy solutions. These efforts enrich both the EU’s and New Zealand’s research ecosystems while tackling shared global challenges.

The EU also recognized New Zealand’s growing role as a key partner in its efforts to strengthen ties with the Pacific region. New Zealand is seen as a bridge for increasing the participation of Pacific Island nations in Horizon Europe projects, offering unique perspectives on pressing issues such as climate change and ocean health. This reinforces the EU’s vision of fostering a more inclusive and globally connected research community.

The EU welcomed the expression of interest from New Zealand to join two new key EU health initiatives, such as the “Brain Health” and “Pandemic Preparedness” partnerships. These collaborations promise to advance critical research that addresses societal needs on both sides. As New Zealand deepens its involvement in Horizon Europe, it will continue to play an essential role in joint efforts to drive innovative solutions for public health.

The meeting also tackled broader geopolitical challenges, including the need for research security, a theme emphasized in the "Political Guidelines for the Next European Commission (2024-2029)" and echoed in reports by Mario Draghi and Enrico Letta. President Ursula von der Leyen’s guidelines stress the importance of like-minded partners like New Zealand in areas such as research, innovation, and secure technologies. 

Both the EU and New Zealand celebrated the progress made so far and looked forward to deepening their partnership further. The next Joint Committee meeting, planned for 2025, will build on the success of this inaugural meeting, continuing the momentum toward a stronger and more impactful collaboration.

More information

International cooperation with New Zealand