This is a special edition of the ISCP newsletter, reflecting the fact that the EU’s Sixth Framework Programme for Research (FP6) will be replaced by FP7 at the beginning of 2007. The newsletter illustrates some of the successes of international scientific co-operation in FP6 and outlines what to expect in the next Framework Programme. There is also news from around the world about ongoing international co-operation activities and S&T agreements.

Publication of the newsletter coincides with the publishing of a new specific call to promote the participation of partners from third countries in FP6 projects for which contracts are already signed or under negotiation. The call was published on 15 February 2006 and aims to boost participation in priority thematic areas of the Sixth Framework Programme.

All aspects of FP6 were thrown open to participation by scientists and researchers from third countries, reflecting the EU’s determination to build a European Research Area that harnesses the best available talent and expertise. The Commission’s international scientific co-operation strategies and activities also support the EU’s drive to become the world’s most dynamic, competitive economy, as outlined in the Lisbon Agenda.

Opening-up FP6 made perfect sense, bearing in mind the Union’s desire to forge closer political and economic relations with its global partners. International S&T co-operation is now a central plank of the EU’s external policy-making, and FP6 has helped to lay the foundations of a worldwide network for scientific and technological endeavour.

The EU and its partners understand the important role research now plays in tackling some of the world’s most daunting challenges. Only by building global partnerships will we be able to improve economic prospects, and create sustainable development solutions to help safeguard the planet for future generations and fight poverty and disease.