Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1854. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science if he proposes to develop a research agreement with Taiwan, similar to that agreed by Lithuania; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1181/24]
View answerIreland, along with our EU partners, adheres to the One China Policy. This means that we do not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan and that we recognise the People's Republic of China as the legal representative of Taiwan. This does not preclude the development of economic, cultural and people-to-people connections with Taiwan. From a research and innovation perspective, Ireland has very few bilateral agreements and has no plans to develop a research agreement with Taiwan. The most effective way for Ireland to engage in research and innovation cooperation with other countries is through the EU Framework Programmes for research and innovation.The current programme is Horizon Europe, which has a budget of €95.5 billion over the period 2021-2027. To date, the Irish research and innovation community has drawn down almost €630 million. There are currently very low levels of engagement between Ireland and Taiwan – our researchers are involved in six collaborative links under Horizon Europe. Horizon Europe projects also include participants from other countries.
