On 12 February 2025, the first Steering Platform (SP) meeting of the year 2025 takes place online. The event is facilitated by the POLICY ANSWERS project.

Co-chaired by the European Commission, Montenegro on behalf of the Western Balkans and Poland holding the EU Council presidency, key stakeholders meet to discuss the latest developments and future in research and innovation (R&I) cooperation. T

The European Commission provides updates on a range of initiatives, including the Horizon Europe programme, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions and the Western Balkans Investment Framework. Following this, representatives from Western Balkan share their progress and priorities. The conversation also includes updates from EU Member States and various international organisations, painting a comprehensive picture of the current R&I ecosystem.

Projects strengthening R&I capacity in the Western Balkans, like STAND and Cobiss.net are presented and the POLICY ANSWERS project also provides an update on its activities.