Ms Hirayama, accompanied by a scientific delegation, took part in various events and bilateral meetings during her one and a half day working visit. On 10 April, she launched the Polish-Swiss research and innovation programme together with representatives of the Polish government. The programme is being carried out as part of the second Swiss contribution to selected EU member states, which include Poland. Switzerland is investing CHF 35 million in this programme until 2029. Innosuisse and the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) are also involved in its implementation. Tools and participation opportunities for researchers and innovation stakeholders from both countries were presented at the kick-off event.

In bilateral talks, Ms Hirayama and the Swiss delegation exchanged views with representatives of the Polish ministries responsible for the ERI sector. Cooperation under the European Framework Programmes for Research and Innovation and opportunities for increased bilateral cooperation in vocational education and training were high on the agenda.

Switzerland and Poland maintain good bilateral relations in the ERI sector. At the end of 2023, Swiss and Polish researchers were collaborating on over 130 projects under Horizon Europe. In addition, since 2018 the SNSF has funded around 150 projects in which researchers from Switzerland and Poland work together. Since 1962, 330 Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships for Foreign Researchers and Artists have been awarded to Polish researchers. State Secretary Hirayama met some of them at a reception at the Swiss ambassador's residence in Warsaw.

Further information:

Swiss contribution to selected EU member states

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Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research