Brussels, 24/03/2005 (Agence Europe) - In the framework of the programme Erasmus Mundus, the European Commission and the Indian government concluded an agreement on 22 March on financing to benefit young Indians who wish to study in Europe. The European Union is offering 33 million euros to finance thousands of grants for Indian students who could then benefit from the teaching in the Member States' biggest universities. Commissioners Benita Ferrero-Waldner (External Relations) and Jan Figel (Education) stressed: “Alongside the individual benefits to be gained by Indian students, this programme will put the spotlight on European higher education and create links between the European and Indian decision-makers of tomorrow, an important element in protecting a solid partnership for the future”. Interested students can apply to participate in a study programme by direct contact with a university participating in the European programme. (There is further information on the DG Education website: http: //europa.eu.int/comm/education/programmes/ mundus/projects/index_en.html).