The critical importance of research and innovation in strengthening the EU’s strategy for startups and scaleups, was pointed out by the Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy Nikodimos Damianos, at the EU Competitiveness Council for Research, on Tuesday in Brussels. “This strategy is not only about supporting new businesses, but also about retaining talent and innovative startups within Europe,” stressed Damianos, adding that “Cyprus is ready to actively contribute to its implementation, especially in view of the upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the EU Council in 2026.”
A regards the Council’s main conclusions, Damianos stressed that “we must bridge the innovation gap between member states,” highlighting that “this strategy will enhance Europe’s competitiveness and technological sovereignty, ensuring that top talent and innovative companies remain within the EU.”
The research ministers of the 27 member states also approved conclusions on the EU’s Life Sciences Strategy, that underscores their critical role in boosting competitiveness, strategic autonomy, and social well-being. “Life sciences are one of the key pillars for Europe’s economic and technological independence,” noted Damianos, adding that “Cyprus, with its investments in areas such as biotechnology and biobanks, is ready to contribute to the implementation of this strategy.”
The most political part of the second day’s discussions focused on research and innovation for dual-use and defense applications. During the debate on the “Horizon Europe” Framework Programme (2028-2034), Damianos emphasized that “the new approach to dual-use and defense will strengthen the EU’s resilience and competitiveness.” However, he stressed the need for clear rules and criteria for third-country participation to avoid risks to the EU’s energy and technological security. “We must ensure that procedures are simplified and free of additional administrative burdens, especially for Member States with limited resources,” he added, referring to the need to support “widening” Member States in accessing critical technological infrastructures.
During a working lunch, ministers discussed the EU’s future ambitions regarding research and technological infrastructures. Damianos pointed out that “as a geographically small and isolated Member State, Cyprus considers EU support for access to world-class infrastructures vital.” However, “without this support, we risk falling behind in critical areas such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors,” he added.
On the sidelines of the Council in Brussels, Damianos held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Estonia, Minister of Education and Research, Kristina Kallas, and Portugal, Minister of Education, Science and Innovation, Fernando Alexandre, aiming to coordinate and prepare for key issues ahead of Cyprus’s EU Council Presidency in 2026. “Cyprus will place particular emphasis on strengthening research, innovation, and digital transition, with the goal of a more competitive and sustainable Europe,” he concluded.