Brussels, 22 April 2026 – The 13th Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Forum (AERAP Forum) concluded in Brussels with the adoption of the Declaration of the 13th Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Forum, reaffirming a shared commitment to place science, technology and innovation (STI) at the heart of the strategic partnership between Africa and Europe.
Held under the theme “Science Collaboration for Shared Futures”, the Forum brought together policymakers, researchers, innovators, industry leaders, investors and international organisations to define a common vision for strengthening bilateral cooperation and addressing global challenges through science-driven solutions.
The Declaration outlines six strategic priorities that will guide future collaboration between the two continents.
Aligning Science with Strategic Investment
Participants called for closer alignment between the European Union’s Multiannual Financial Framework (2028–2034), Horizon Europe, the Global Gateway Strategy, and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, recognising science as a strategic pillar for sustainable development, economic growth and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Investing in Frontier Technologies
Recognising the transformative potential of emerging technologies, the Declaration identifies Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing and Digital Public Infrastructure as priority areas for joint leadership. Participants committed to building interconnected research ecosystems capable of strengthening scientific excellence, technological sovereignty and innovation across both continents.
Strengthening Health and Food Security
The Forum reaffirmed the importance of long-term partnerships to improve global health preparedness and resilient food systems. Commitments include strengthening health research collaboration, improving equitable access to vaccines, promoting data-driven approaches to future health threats, and increasing investment in agricultural innovation to enhance food security and climate resilience.
Building Sustainable Value Chains for Critical Raw Materials
Acknowledging the importance of the green and digital transitions, the Declaration calls for a new Africa–Europe partnership on Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) that moves beyond resource extraction towards local value addition, scientific cooperation, circular economy solutions and AI-enabled resource mapping.
Mobilising Capital and Talent
To bridge the gap between research and industrial deployment, participants endorsed stronger collaboration with capital markets and innovative financing mechanisms to de-risk investments in science and innovation. The Declaration also highlights the importance of talent mobility through initiatives such as the South Africa Presidential PhD Initiative and the EU Youth Mobility Flagship, supporting the next generation of African and European scientists.
Advancing Science Diplomacy
The Declaration positions science diplomacy as an increasingly important instrument for international cooperation and global governance. Participants welcomed the momentum generated towards the inaugural Africa Science Diplomacy Conference, to be held in Pretoria, as an important milestone for strengthening Africa’s role in shaping international scientific collaboration.
Looking Ahead
The Declaration reflects AERAP’s continued commitment to strengthening the Africa–Europe science partnership through evidence-based policymaking, collaborative research, innovation and investment. As both continents navigate rapidly evolving geopolitical, technological and environmental challenges, the Forum reaffirmed that science remains one of the strongest foundations for building resilient, prosperous and sustainable societies.
The full Declaration of the 13th Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Forum is available for download below.
Download the Declaration: Declaration of the 13th Africa–Europe Science Collaboration Forum (PDF)
