They also participate broadly in international conferences, in scientific symposia, where they can bring forward their views, and where they're exposed to new research and new ideas.

(27) It is also necessary to reinforce the role of the Scientific Committees in such a way as to enable the Agency to participate actively in international scientific dialogue and to develop certain activities that will be necessary, in particular regarding international scientific harmonisation and technical cooperation with the World Health Organisation.

The latters' adoption by the Council and the European Parliament in June 2002, six months before its entry into force, is the most visible and prominent achievement in the year since the launch of the strategy It marks a decisive step towards involving Europe's research and scientific networks in the fulfilment of the Lisbon agenda of economic, social and environmental renewal.

Other activities include organisation of scientific seminars and symposia in selected institutes in the NIS, with the participation of western scientists and experts, travel grants for NIS scientists to put them in contact with colleagues in western countries for developing joint project proposals.

Programme of scientific cooperation with the Ministry of Higher Education: 2 500 000 ECU, of which 470 000 ECU as a grant and 2 030 000 as a special loan. -------------------------------------------------------------------- This is a programme aimed at boosting Algeria's basic research, university and development potential by: - supplying technical and scientific equipment - training staff; - providing study grants; - sending out experts; - arranging attendance at European conferences; - developing cooperation schemes with European research centres.

Women account for 50% of university graduates, but paradoxically their involvement in scientific research is still marginal.