Minister Fuchs participated in EU Competitiveness Council for Research held in Brussels

The Minister of Science, Education and Youth, Prof. Radovan Fuchs, PhD, participated in the EU Competitiveness Council for Research, held in Brussels on 27 February 2026.

A policy debate was held on key issues regarding the proposal for the next Horizon Europe programme. During the debate, Minister Fuchs pointed out that, before reaching an agreement on the future programme, there is still room for further discussion on specific parts of Horizon Europe programme, especially the strategic discussion on the widening package. The Minister added that the measures for widening participation are key to reducing the gap in the area of research and innovation in the EU. He also highlighted the importance of defining the relationship between Horizon Europe and the European Competitiveness Fund. 

The ministers also approved the general approach for the legislative package on the Research Fund for Coal and Steel, which lays down the extension of duration of the Research Programme for Coal and Steel to 31 December 2034. Moreover, it stipulates additional funding for research projects amounting to € 200 million for organisations that carry out research and innovation in the coal and steel sectors. 

During the lunch debate the ministers discussed the promotion of excellence and international cooperation in view of the current geopolitical context. It was highlighted that international cooperation with the third countries should remain the basis of the future Horizon Europe programme. On the other hand, the need for enhancing research security was emphasized, especially considering the ever complex geopolitical situation. Minister Fuchs pointed out that cooperation with third countries should be further strengthened, but at the same time research security, particularly with regard to dual-use projects and open data policies, should be taken into consideration. 

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