Brussels, 2 April 2024
The EU and Japan will work together on developing new materials used in critical sectors of the economy. Cementing close collaboration in research and innovation, Iliana Ivanova, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, and Hiroki Matsuo, Vice-Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, Cabinet Office, announced the launch of the EU-Japan Enhanced Dialogue on Advanced Materials in Tokyo today.
The announcement follows the recent Commission Communication on Advanced Materials for Industrial Leadership adopted on 27 February. Used in key sectors and applications such as renewable energy, batteries, zero-emission buildings and semiconductors, advanced materials are a key enabling technology underpinning the green and digital transitions and a vital part of economic sovereignty and strategic independence. The EU and Japan have a global lead in this technology. The reinforced collaboration will strengthen cooperation on new and emerging technologies at the level of the G7.
The EU-Japan Enhanced Dialogue on Advanced Materials builds on the success of EU-Japan collaboration in R&I in material sciences, including on the development of new materials for the substitution of critical metals or advanced materials for power electronics. It aims to create a platform for sharing information on policy developments and exploring the opportunities to pursue collaborative research in the areas of mutual interest.
Background
Materials research is a strategic area for cooperation with Japan, providing both sides with new opportunities. Close cooperation dates back to the Seventh Framework Programme for research and innovation (2007-13), which funded six projects with €13.1 million. Advanced materials continue to be a core area of cooperation with mutual opportunities in numerous areas including materials sustainability and energy efficiency in the construction/building sector.
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Quote(s)
The new dialogue on advanced materials strengthens our cooperation with Japan in research and innovation. These materials are critical for our transition to a green future, and by joining forces, we can get there faster. I look forward to seeing the results of this new cooperation with Japan.
In a global community undergoing a historic transformation, we hope that this dialogue will further broaden the discussion on ways to develop and share basic principles, values, and effective practices.