European Union and African Union research and innovation ministers meet for the first time

On 16 July 2020, the European Union and African Union research and innovation ministers met for the first time, discussing research and innovation (R&I) activities addressing the human health impacts and the more far-reaching socio-economic effects of COVID-19. This increased co-operation between the EU and AU reflects the communication 'Towards a comprehensive strategy with Africa', which aimed to improve R&I ties between Africa and Europe.

The discussion took place online at the first ever EU-AU research and innovation ministers' meeting. The ministers outlined four key areas of co-operation during the meeting: public health, green transition, innovation and technology and capacities for science. With the current crisis posed by COVID-19, this formed a central part of the discussions.

To find out more about EU-AU co-operation in research and innovation, take a look at this factsheet: https://ec.europa.eu/research/iscp/pdf/policy/ec_rtd_eu-au-ri-cooperation-factsheet.pdf