Today, the first negotiation meeting was held between representatives of Israel and the European Union regarding Israel’s participation in the EU R&D program for the years 2014-2020, known as Horizon 2020.

Israel has taken part in this EU program since 1996 and its contribution over the years has been highly appreciated by European research institutions and companies, especially with respect to groundbreaking research and innovation.

Today’s discussions focused on drafting a Memorandum of Understanding which, upon concluding the negotiation, will detail rules and procedures for Israel’s participation, including financial aspects.

At the outset of today’s session, the Israeli side presented its position which views with gravity the internal guidelines adopted (19.7.2013) by the European Commission regarding the territorial extension of agreements with Israel. Israel expressed its hope that a way to reach positive understandings on the guidelines’ implementation will be found, so as to enable Israel to participate in Horizon 2020. It was emphasized that, should such understandings not be reached, Israel will be unable to join the European R&D program.