Amman, July 8 (Petra) – Jordan and the European Union have renewed their collaboration on a key research and innovation program for the Mediterranean region.

The Higher Council for Science and Technology (HCST) and the EU signed an agreement to extend the Partnership for Research and Innovation in the Mediterranean Area (PRIMA) program through 2027.

HCST Secretary-General Mashhoor Al-Rifai and EU representative Marc Lemaitre inked the deal. Officials from the Jordanian Embassy in Brussels were also present.

Al-Rifai highlighted that the extension will strengthen Jordan's international partnerships in research and innovation.

He praised the PRIMA program for its collaborative support of scientific research projects across Mediterranean countries and the EU, particularly in the vital areas of water, food, and agricultural systems.

The HCST, as part of a 19-nation consortium, previously spearheaded a regional program from 2018 to 2024. This initiative focused on developing and applying joint scientific research to find innovative solutions for sustainable food production and water provision challenges in the Mediterranean basin.

Al-Rifai also acknowledged the Jordanian Embassy's role in facilitating the agreement's signing, specifically crediting Ambassador Yousef Al-Batayneh.

This extended agreement means continued access to competitive funding and expanded cooperation with EU and Mediterranean nations. It will also bolster national capabilities in research, development, and innovation, contributing significantly to addressing regional challenges related to water, food, and climate.

Jordan's participation in this agreement underscores its commitment to fostering international research and innovation within the Euro-Mediterranean community. It also recognizes the critical role of rapid advancements in research and technology in guiding future global research collaboration and funding.

The HCST is the national funding body for the PRIMA program in Jordan. Over the past years, it has enabled Jordanian researchers to pursue competitive projects and engage in regional initiatives.

//Petra// AA

08/07/2025 11:33:25