On June 22, 2016, the EU adopted a joint statement on the elements of a new strategy between the EU and China. The Statement suggests strengthening relations between the EU and China, and the establishment of a coherent strategy towards China by the EU Member States. One point is strengthening of cooperation in the field of research and innovation and sharing of knowledge and the development of technology and solutions of societal challenges. The EU and China should be included in programs co-financing research and innovation, especially in the context of Horizon 2020 and the Euratom activities. The EU also wants to step up cooperation with China in the field of digital technology, intellectual property rights protection and strengthening efforts in the fight against cyber theft of intellectual property and trade secrets.
