The European Commission has announced a €60 million support package for Georgia and Moldova. This package will help public institutions, citizens and the business community “to seize the benefits and opportunities of the Association Agreements with the EU,” a press release said, “including the possibility of access to the EU market.”
Both countries are genuinely committed to a major shift in their relations with the European Union, based on shared fundamental values, said EU Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy Štefan Füle. “The Association Agreements will make that shift possible, and will open the possibility of stronger trade ties with the European market. And our assistance will continue to accompany this process,” he added.
Support to Moldova (€30 million) targets competitiveness of small business, development of national legislation in line with EU quality standards and promotion of export and investment opportunities, communication and information campaigns on the trade agreement with the EU.
Support to Georgia (€30 million) is focused on modernisation of public institutions linked to the implementation of the Association Agreement, competitiveness of rural business and trade opportunities with the EU and protection of the rights of minorities and vulnerable groups.
Funding for this package is granted to Georgia and Moldova through the 'more for more' mechanism of the new European Neighbourhood Instrument: the multi-country umbrella programme. This mechanism rewards progress in democratic reforms with supplementary financial allocations. Regular allocations under the Annual Action Programme 2014 will come later this year.
