The Joint Programming Initiative “Water Challenges for a Changing World” (Water JPI) and the Kick-off of the Coordination and Support Action WatEUr were launched in Madrid on February 5th, 2013

High level representatives from Member States, Associate Countries and the European Commission participated in the event.

The Water JPI contribute to the establishment of the European Research Area by ensuring coherence of national and regional research programmes and by setting priorities on one of the major societal challenge, such as achieving sustainable water systems for a sustainable economy in Europe and abroad.

23 European countries and the European Commission participate in the JPI. The Water JPI initiative will better coordinate European research agendas, triggering specific activities such as projects, infrastructure and mobility. It will also promote competitiveness in the water industry and implement a water-wise bio-based economy.

The implementation of the Water JPI is prepared and supported by the FP7 project WatEUr involves 17 institutions of 14 countries JPI members for three years.