EU adopts a new support program for 350 million euros for North Africa and the Middle East

The European Commission adopted y a new program of support for North Africa and the Middle East for a total of 350 million euros for 2011-2012 on Tuesday.

As part of the European Neighbourhood Policy, the program entitled "Spring" is structured around four new decisions to support the countries south of the border in the wake of the Arab Spring, in the areas of democracy, growth , job creation, micro-finance and higher education, said a statement from the European Commission.

It aims to meet the pressing needs of particular socio-economic challenges faced by partner countries of the southern Mediterranean region and support their transition to democracy, says the source, adding that he will be adapted to needs of each country.

"The European Union was the first to offer a serious response to the Arab spring. This new series is the result of decisions of the European Neighbourhood Policy launched in May and confirmed that the EU has been one of its main priority support "deep" and lasting democracy, but also to economic recovery in North Africa and the Middle East, "said Catherine Ashton on this occasion, the High Representative for Foreign and security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.

The Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy, Stefan Fule, stressed that "these decisions demonstrate our commitment to our neighboring partners in the creation of jobs, improved living conditions, partnerships academics and promoting a stronger voice for civil society, this support reflects the total commitment of Europe to ensure the desired transition to democracy in the region. "

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Yacout Info

Tuesday, September 27th 2011