Representatives from the European Union and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) have adopted a Ministerial Declaration and a New Agenda for Cooperation in Research and Innovation
The agreement marks a significant step forward in bi-regional relations, outlining shared priorities and actions to strengthen collaboration in key areas, including climate change, health, digital technologies, and sustainability.
The agreements were reached during the first-ever EU-CELAC Research and Innovation Ministerial meeting, co-chaired by the European Commissioner for Research, Innovation, and Science, Ekaterina Zaharieva.
This event builds upon what was discussed at the 2023 EU-CELAC Summit, where leaders approved the New EU-LAC Agenda and suggested enhanced cooperation in science and technology.
Focus area and next steps
The new cooperation framework outlines the creation of dedicated Working Groups that will focus on four main areas: health, climate change and environmental sustainability, energy transition, and artificial intelligence in science. Participation in these groups will be open and voluntary for all EU and CELAC countries.
Each Working Group will be expected to develop an 18-month plan of action that turns the ministerial commitments into concrete activities. These plans will guide the implementation of research projects, capacity building and knowledge exchange across both regions.
To ensure continuity and coordination, the initiative will be supported by a permanent mechanism connecting the European Commission with the CELAC Pro Tempore Presidency. This structure is designed to provide strategic oversight and support long-term collaboration.
Regular reviews and long-term vision
Ministers from both regions have agreed to meet every two years to assess progress, set new goals, and provide political direction. This regular cycle of high-level engagement ensures the partnership remains dynamic and responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities.
The outcomes of the current work will contribute to the upcoming CELAC-EU Summit, scheduled to take place in Santa Marta, Colombia, on 9-10 November 2025. Leaders from both regions will use the summit to evaluate the results achieved and reaffirm their commitment to strengthening cooperation in science and innovation.
Building on strong foundations
The EU and CELAC already share a solid history of cooperation in research and innovation. Under the EU’s Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe programmes, over 1,800 joint projects have been carried out, involving partners from Latin America and the Caribbean. These collaborations have spanned critical areas, including renewable energy, climate science, the bioeconomy, and digital innovation.
The new agenda aims to build on these successes, scaling up the scope and impact of bi-regional initiatives. By creating a clear governance framework and identifying shared priorities, the EU and CELAC seek to transform mutual interests into impactful scientific outcomes that benefit people and economies on both sides of the Atlantic.
This renewed focus on research and innovation cooperation shows the growing recognition of science as a central tool for addressing global challenges. Whether it’s developing solutions for climate resilience, advancing healthcare, or unlocking the potential of artificial intelligence, the EU–CELAC partnership is positioning itself as a force for sustainable and inclusive development.
