Yerevan /Mediamax/. Armenia joined "Horizon 2020", the EU Framework Program for Research and Innovation.

The relevant agreement was signed between Armenian government and the European Commission in Brussels yesterday.

“Armenia 's participation in the "Horizon 2020 ", the EU's Framework Program for Research and Innovation will undoubtedly open up new prospects for the development of academic thought in Armenia, reaffirming the fact that Armenians an integral part of European civilization”, Levon Mkrtchyan stressed.

According to Armenian Minister of Education and Science, agreement will allow Armenians to carry out scientific research in accordance with international standards, attracting highly qualified researchers, to promote the development of research infrastructure, increase the level of investment in research and innovation.

Commissioner for European Neighborhood Policy and Enlargement Johannes Hahn noted that Armenia joining “Horizon 2020” was a concrete example of the commitment to enhance EU relations with Armenia.

Research institutions and the private sector in Armenia will be able to obtain funding for advanced research and scientific development through the program.

The basis of the preparation of an agreement to join “Horizon 2020" program are the EU's Seventh Framework Program, Bologna process, accreditation of higher education institutions, Tempus , Erasmus +.

Armenia should make a financial contribution every year for the program associate membership.

Negotiations on signing Armenian association agreement with “Horizon 2020" launched in July 2013.