The internationalization of exchange is here to stay in all spheres of endeavour, and health research is no exception. This is why FRQS has an external relations policy aimed at fostering the development of collaborative research on the Canadian scene and internationally. FRQS is the first provincial health research granting agency with such a policy.

The policy's approach is based on three principles that govern FRQS's action on the external relations front: researchers' dynamism and leadership; FRQS's role as a facilitator; and the policy's consistency with government aims and objectives. In it, FRQS also identifies priority geographical zones for collaboration

The policy will be implemented by means of an action plan containing 22 measures subsumed under four broad areas of intervention: