The European Union and Japan have announced an unprecedented collaboration in the development of critical advanced materials to drive renewable energies and sustainable technological innovation. This historic agreement has been sealed with the initiation of an enhanced dialogue between the two parties, aiming to foster joint research and development in this vital area for the future of both economies.

Iliana Ivanova, EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, along with Hiroki Matsuo, Vice-Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy of Japan, announced the initiative in Tokyo. This significant step is a direct response to the recent Communication from the European Commission on advanced materials for industrial leadership, highlighting the critical importance of these materials in the transition to a greener and more digital economy.

Advanced materials play a fundamental role in key sectors such as renewable energies, batteries, power electronics, and sustainable construction. Collaboration between the EU and Japan in this field will not only strengthen the global position of both parties but also accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and eco-efficient economy.

This enhanced partnership builds upon the previous success of cooperation between the EU and Japan in materials science, including the development of alternatives to critical metals and new materials for advanced electronic applications. The goal is to create a platform for sharing information, policies, and opportunities for collaborative research in areas of mutual interest.

Material research is a key strategic area for cooperation between the EU and Japan, with a solid track record of collaboration dating back to the Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Innovation. Both parties have recognized the importance of continuing to work together to address global challenges such as material sustainability and energy efficiency in construction.

In the words of Iliana Ivanova, EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education, and Youth, "this new dialogue on advanced materials strengthens our cooperation with Japan in research and innovation. These materials are crucial for our transition to a greener future, and by joining forces, we can get there faster."

Hiroki Matsuo, Vice-Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy of Japan, expressed enthusiasm for expanding the debate on ways to develop and share basic principles, values, and effective practices in this era of unprecedented global transformation.

With this historic agreement, the EU and Japan are laying the groundwork for closer and more fruitful collaboration in the field of advanced materials, promising to drive innovation and progress toward a more sustainable future for generations to come.