Increased international collaboration in FP7

Following what András Siegler terms 'a steep learning curve' for DG Research during the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6), the DG's Director for International Scientific Cooperation has plans for bigger and better international cooperation (INCO) activities in FP7. Under FP6, INCO had a budget of €660 million, of which 60 million was allocated to support international mobility. The remaining 600 million was divided in two: €315 million was envisaged for collaboration with developing countries and the EU's neighbourhood policy countries in areas corresponding to the regions' needs, as identified by an appointed platform. The other €285 million was termed a 'policy target', and was to be used within the thematic priorities of FP6 via projects taking on board third countries. This was the first time that the entire programme has been opened up to third countries. The Commission recently published a top-up call, 'designed to improve the situation,' says Dr Siegler, which allows projects that are currently in the pipeline or have a minimum of 18 months remaining, to apply for funding to invite third country partners to join. Dr Siegler expects a huge interest in the call, which closes on 16 May (see Call for proposals below in this Flash). The precise contents of FP7 are yet to be finalised, but with an overall budget increase more or less assured, INCO is likely to benefit from greater funds. See the EC website for further details.