China and the European Union have renewed their joint research cooperation agreement, extending their collaboration on scientific projects through 2027 despite ongoing trade and geopolitical tensions. The two-year extension, reported by Chinese state-linked media, reflects a shared focus on addressing global challenges such as climate change, agriculture, biodiversity, and bio-solutions.
The agreement, signed by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology and the European Commission, underpins funding for universities, research institutions, and enterprises in both China and the EU. The collaborative projects are part of a framework designed to promote practical research and development aimed at tackling environmental and sustainability issues. Although the exact date of signing was not disclosed, the new deal continues a mechanism that was first established in 2015 to commemorate 40 years of diplomatic relations between China and the EU. The previous cooperation cycle spanned from 2021 to 2024.
This latest phase aligns with distinct but complementary national programs. China supports the initiative through its National Key Research and Development Programme and related intergovernmental science and technology cooperation agreements. The EU’s contribution comes from Horizon Europe, its flagship research and innovation funding program.
Notably, Horizon Europe imposes restrictions on Chinese organizations in certain sensitive sectors, including artificial intelligence, quantum technology, semiconductors, and biotechnology. These limitations, in place since January, bar Chinese entities from applying for funding in critical areas totaling €93 billion due to European concerns over research security and potential military applications. However, the program specifically excludes climate change, agriculture, and biodiversity from these restrictions, enabling continued joint engagement in those fields.
The renewed cooperation comes amid broader strains in China-EU relations, particularly concerning trade imbalances and geopolitical issues. The influx of Chinese-made electric vehicles into the European market has been a source of tension, alongside disputes related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The EU has repeatedly criticized China for what it perceives as indirect support to Russia, including unverified allegations of Chinese involvement in training Russian troops, which Beijing denies.
In recent days, senior officials from both sides have engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation and managing bilateral tensions. Wang Hongzhi, head of China’s National Energy Administration, met with European Commissioner for Energy and Housing Dan Jorgensen in Beijing to exchange views on energy transition, electrification, and policy coordination. Meanwhile, a delegation from the European Parliament’s foreign affairs committee conducted its first visit to China, holding talks focused on improving dialogue amid the complex geopolitical landscape.
Despite disagreements over trade practices, export controls on critical raw materials, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, both China and the EU appear committed to maintaining collaborative efforts in scientific research, especially in areas addressing environmental sustainability and food security.