European Commission ceases research, scientific cooperation with Russia

BRUSSELS. March 4 (Interfax) - The European Commission has announced its decision to suspend cooperation with Russian entities in research, science and innovation on Friday.

"We have decided not to engage into further cooperation projects in research and innovation with Russian entities. At the same time, we are strongly committed to ensuring a continued successful participation of Ukraine in Horizon Europe and Euratom Research and Training programs," European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth Mariya Gabriel said.

The European Commission has taken administrative steps to ensure that Ukrainian scientists can receive funding from the European Union's research and innovation programs, she said.

The European Commission said in its statement that it will not conclude any new contracts or any new agreements with Russian organizations under the Horizon Europe program. Furthermore, it is suspending payments to Russian entities under existing contracts.

Executive Vice President of the European Commission Margrethe Vestager said, commenting on this decision, "EU research cooperation is based on the respect for the freedoms and rights that underpin excellence and innovation."