The launch of the 8th Eastern Partnership Informal Ministerial Meeting on research, science and innovation took place in Yerevan. The event, which is hosted by The Armenian Minister of Education and Science Levon Mkrtchyan, brought together Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Carlos Moedas, EU Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, Ministers and high level officials of Eastern Partnership countries - Armenia, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia and the Republic of Moldova.
Levon Mkrtchyan delivered an opening speech and welcomed all the participant states of the meeting, stressing the fact that it was an honor to host such kind of event in Armenia. "The meeting takes place at a veryimportant time for our country, as it coincides with the association to ”Horizon 2020” research and innovation program of the European Union. We started 3 years ago and today we can announce that in accordance with the RA legislation, the agreement came into force a few days ago, on November 12”, said the Minister, adding that joining the program was the first major step, after which constant efforts would be needed to make the best possible use of the possibilities provided. In his speech, Mr. Mkrtchyan also stressed, that our country should first of all assess its scientific possibilities and potential within the framework of the Eastern Partnership.
Speeches were also delivered by Johannes Hahn, Commissioner for European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations and Carlos Moedas, EU Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation.