China-European Union Science & Technology

Cooperation Promotion Office

    In December 1998 the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement between the People’s Republic of China and the European Community was signed. Accordingly, EU opens to China its RTD Framework Programme which allows the participation of the Chinese institutions. China opens to EU the National High Technology Research and Development Programme (863 Programme) and National Key Basic Research Programme (973 Programme). The Agreement has brought an unprecedented opportunity and platform for the promotion of the China-EU science and technology cooperation. To implement the Agreement, the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (MOST) established the “China-European Union Science & Technology Cooperation Promotion Office ” (CECO) to help the Chinese institutions and researchers to participate in the Framework Programme. The CECO started running in June 2001. 

    CECO is a non-profit organization specialized in offering consultation and guidance to Chinese research institutions, enterprises/companies and scientists for participation in the Framework Programme. Under the supervision and guidance of the Department of International Cooperation of MOST and the support of EC DG Research and the EU Delegation in China, the CECO is attached to the China Science and Technology Exchange Center. 

Responsibilities and tasks:  

    To follow, study and analyze the EU science and technology policy as well as development of the Framework Programme

    To publicize information on the China-EU cooperation policy, the Framework Programme and cooperation activities to S&T and industrial communities through web, publications, conferences, etc.

    To study the participation of EU Member States and associated states in the Framework Programme and technical skills in project application, to establish partnerships with relevant organizations in the EU Member States and associated states

    To assist Chinese research organizations, universities, enterprises and researchers to find European partners

    To offer consulting service and guidance to the Chinese partners for project application

    To organize conferences and meetings and receive business visits within the framework of China-EU science and technology cooperation, according to the arrangements by the International Cooperation Department of MOST

    To introduce the Chinese 973 Programme to the European side and give consultation to those who need

    To keep close contact with the Science and Technology Office of the EU delegation in Beijing

    To keep a database of network offices and of interested Chinese scientists for quick dissemination of information, calls for proposals, etc.

    To link with FP National Contact Point in the EU Member States and associate states.