Kazakhstan and the European Commission take research and innovation partnership to a new level

The Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Sayasat Nurbek, held a meeting with the European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, Ekaterina Zakharieva.

The key focus of the meeting was the expansion of research and innovation cooperation between Kazakhstan and the European Union, including the participation of Kazakhstani universities, scientific organizations, research centers, and innovative companies in European research programs, such as Horizon Europe.

The Minister informed the European side about the systemic reforms being implemented in Kazakhstan's science and technology policy. In particular, he highlighted the introduction of digital grant competition procedures, the application of Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) approaches, the development of commercialization mechanisms for scientific achievements, the strengthening of ties between science and business, and the creation of new tools to support innovations and startups.

Special attention was paid to the prospects of Kazakhstan's participation in European research consortia, the training of a new generation of researchers, and the development of deep-tech fields, artificial intelligence, critical materials, engineering technologies, academic mobility, and research infrastructure.

The parties emphasized the importance of systemic coordination between national contact points, universities, scientific organizations, innovation centers, and startup ecosystems to expand Kazakhstan's practical participation in joint projects with the European Union.

Additionally, the sides discussed opportunities for strengthening partnerships between Kazakhstani and European research and innovation teams, as well as promoting joint projects aimed at technology development, workforce training, and the commercialization of scientific results.

"For Kazakhstan, cooperation with the European Commission in the field of research, innovation, and startups is a strategic tool for integration into the global knowledge and technology space. Our goal is not only to expand participation in international programs, including Horizon Europe, but also to build sustainable partnerships between scientists, universities, startups, and industry. It is these connections that form the foundation of a new economy based on knowledge, technology, and human capital," noted Sayasat Nurbek.