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Barna Kovacs, BIOEAST Secretary General, intervened at the recent meeting of the Western Balkans on Research and Innovation (Skopje, 4 June 2024) to underline that there is a growing focus on establishing a robust research and innovation (R&I) driven joint programming structure in Eastern Europe.
This effort is further by the Hungarian EU Presidency from July to December 2024 and the Polish EU Presidency from January to July 2025, along with preparations for the Multiannual Financial Framework 2025. Mr Kovacs underlined the importance of positioning the role of the macro-region (BIOEAST, Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova) within the context of European Open Strategic Autonomy. He emphasised the need to prioritise thematic focuses that add value to both parts of Europe, particularly in the context of natural resource scarcity, sustainability, food and energy security, and solutions to societal impasses.
Specifically, he suggested that the nexus of sustainable soil-water-biomass supply chains could serve as a valid thematic scope for research and innovation (R&I) and stressed the necessity of building bridges between different parts of Europe. This effort should aim to create added value at the local level, increase research, facilitate knowledge transfer, and promote adaptation at the EU level.
During his presentation, Mr Kovacs informed that at the ministerial level, a declaration is set for July where the Hungarian EU Presidency will invite ministers from Western Balkans to sign the BIOEAST common declaration, which will already have been signed by agriculture and research ministers from BIOEAST countries. The aim is to mobilize research funders from each economy, including ministries and agencies, as well as policy networks focused on research, agriculture, and bioeconomy. Additionally, the intention is to seek to engage thematic expert networks specialising in soil, freshwater, food systems, and bioeconomy.
This effort will assess the needs and prepare for a future joint partnership.