Jordan, EU renew partnership on research and innovation in Mediterranean

(MENAFN- Jordan Times) AMMAN — The Partnership on Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area(PRIMA) agreement was recently signed between Jordan and the EU, under the patronage of HRH Prince Hassan and HRH Princess Sumaya, a statement by the Princess Sumaya University for Technology (PSUT) said.

The agreement was signed by the Secretary General of the Higher Council for Science and Technology Khaled El Shuraydehand the Director General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission Maria Cristina Russo during the closing ceremony of the World Science Forum at the Dead Sea on November 10.

Over the last years, growing awareness of the challenges related to agro-food systems and water resources in the Mediterranean area has induced EU member states and Southern and Eastern Mediterranean Countries to work together on several common research initiatives, the statement said.

These initiatives have achieved important results, allowing the creation of strong networks of leading scientists with a diverse background from both shores of the Mediterranean, and reinforcing mutual trust among participating countries.

The 10-year PRIMA agreement has been initiated to create new research and innovation approaches to improve water availability and sustainable agriculture production in a region heavily distressed by climate change, urbanisation and population growth, the statement read, noting that the partnership is based on the three principles of co-funding, co-decision and co-ownership.

Currently, there are 19 countries participating in the bi-regional programme of PRIMA; 11 EU member states and 8 MPCs, and more participants from both sides are expected to join as the initiative grows over time.

The partnership will be financed through a combination of funding which stands at 274 million euros from participating countries matched by 220 million euro from the EU through Horizon 2020 research and innovation funding programme (2014-2020), according to the statement.

Jordan has spearheaded the initiative in cooperation with Italy since its inception in 2012 and has co-chaired PRIMA general assembly. The Kingdom has also shown full commitment to the partnership and will continue to support and actively participate in its activities, Jordanian officials said.

The signing ceremony was attended by Margus Rava ambassador of the Republic of Estonia and Carlos Moedas, the European Commissioner for Science, Research and Innovation, the statement concluded.

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