On 1 July 2026, the Council of the European Union published two draft decisions to authorise the signing, provisional application, and conclusion of an agreement allowing Japan to participate in EU programmes, including Horizon Europe (2021-2027). The decisions, presented in an I/A item note for the Permanent Representatives Committee, are scheduled for adoption at the Council meeting on 8 July 2026. The agreement establishes general principles for Japan's association to Union programmes, deepening scientific collaboration and setting a precedent for future third-country partnerships.
The draft decisions follow the conclusion of negotiations between the EU and Japan, which were reviewed by the Council's working party and finalised by legal-linguistic experts. The first decision authorises the signing and provisional application of the agreement, enabling early implementation before formal conclusion. The second decision provides for the conclusion of the agreement after signature, subject to the consent of the European Parliament, as required under Article 218(10) TFEU. The Council is requested to adopt both decisions and agree in principle on the agreement.
The agreement allows Japan to participate in Horizon Europe, the EU's flagship research and innovation programme, as well as other Union programmes. This association enhances the global reach of EU programmes and fosters deeper EU-Japan scientific and technological cooperation. For Japan, it provides access to EU research networks and funding opportunities, while the EU benefits from Japanese expertise and innovation capacity. The provisional application clause ensures that the partnership can start without delay, even before the formal ratification process is completed.
EU research institutions and universities gain a major non-EU partner, expanding collaboration opportunities and access to Japanese research. Japanese researchers and organisations benefit from participation in Horizon Europe projects and funding. EU taxpayers see a potential increase in programme effectiveness through broader international cooperation. EU businesses may face increased competition for research grants but also gain access to Japanese innovation networks. The European Parliament will need to give its consent before the agreement can be fully concluded, providing a check on the executive's action.