Launch of the European Black Sea Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda
The European Commission i together with the Republic of Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Turkey, Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova have launched today a Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for the Black Sea (SRIA).
The SRIA aims to advance a shared vision for a productive, healthy, resilient and sustainable Black Sea by 2030, while considering the special and unique ecosystem characteristics of it. In particular, its unique biodiversity, cultural heritage sites and the new local, national and transboundary policy measures.
It will focus on four key areas: to address fundamental Black Sea research challenges; to boost the Black Sea Blue Economy; to develop innovative infrastructures and to enhance blue workforce through education for new marine and maritime jobs and engaging citizens.
Carlos Moedas i, Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, said:
Research and innovation is crucial for a healthy and sustainable Black Sea by 2030. We need to stimulate innovative systems at national level, engage more closely with citizens and create new marine and maritime jobs in coastal areas over the next 10 years. This Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda is a good example of science diplomacy, where we work together to address the challenges of a shared sea.
The structure of the SRIA was set to pave the way for an effective and realistic implementation in close cooperation with experts and stakeholders from countries bordering the Black Sea.
Background
A Vision Paper for a SRIA was proposed on the European Maritime Day 2018. The Paper was the result of a deep analysis of gaps, regional and national framework conditions for research and innovation needs and opportunities for successful implementation. Several workshops took place between June 2017 and March this year to identify key challenges, goals and actions and embed them in a common strategic agenda. The SRIA is developed under the umbrella of the Black Sea Synergy initiative, which is the EU's key regional policy framework in the Black Sea.
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