High tech and innovation are now a matter of security and independence, not just competitiveness, EU commissioner for startups, research and innovation Ekaterina Zaharieva said in Burgas. She was speaking at the second international forum "Black Sea 2030: Security, Resilience, Innovation".
Zaharieva said the European Commission proposes that the next EU budget period should also allow funding for dual-use technology, which has both civilian and military uses. Science and innovation are among the Commission's most important topics, she said, and EU programmes support research.
Zaharieva said events in the Black Sea region show how important it is for Europe to have its own technology. Until now, the Black Sea has been seen mainly as a link to Asia, but its importance for Europe's security is growing. Security is one of the main goals of the EU's Black Sea strategy, adopted last year.
Uncertainty hurts local business, she said. Tourism is important for the economy of the Burgas region, but high-tech firms could make it more stable and keep it going all year round.
"Innovation does not happen in Brussels, it happens in the regions," Zaharieva said.
She believes innovation hubs in Europe's regions should be linked more closely. Every EU member state has strong hubs built around research bodies, institutes and universities, but they work together too little. As an example, she pointed to the need for better links between innovation hubs in Burgas and Varna and those in other European cities, including Barcelona.
The commissioner also said business does not know enough about what research and innovation can offer it. Innovation centres can close that gap and connect universities, research bodies and companies.
She said local authorities know best what universities and business need, so they carry a lot of weight in how innovation develops in the regions.
The forum brings together officials, European organisations, scientists and business people to discuss the future of the Black Sea region. Topics include security in the Black Sea, protecting the marine environment, sustainable development, and the role of science and innovation. The organisers want institutions, scientists and business to work together and find practical solutions for a safe and sustainable future for the region.
/VY/