Commission proposes to implement a Euro-Mediterranean partnership
On 8 March 1995, the Commission approved a communication to the Parliament and the Council concerning the implementation of a Euro-Mediterranean partnership. The communication establishes the main themes of the Euro-Mediterranean partnership and proposes key areas for financial and technical cooperation from 1995 to 1999. It also outlines the implementation instruments and procedures necessary to help the countries concerned cope with the challenges confronting them and to achieve the objectives defined by the Essen European Council, namely the peace, stability and prosperity of the Mediterranean region. The Commission recommends three closely connected priority areas for action: - Support for economic transition; - Support for achieving better social and economic balance; - Support for regional integration. Support for economic transition will focus on four key areas: - Creation of a Euro-Mediterranean free-trade area; - Promotion of the private sector in the Mediterranean countries, including the modernization and restructuring of industry and the introduction of a suitable regulatory system; - Promotion of private European investment; - Upgrading of economic and social infrastructure. In the field of greater social and economic balance, the Commission proposes to take action to promote: - Harmonious and integrated rural development; - Improved social services, particularly in towns; - Greater cooperation in fisheries; - Environmental protection; - The involvement of civil society in the development process; - Integrated human resources development, including education and vocational training; - Democracy and respect for human rights; - Cultural exchanges; - Cooperation and technical assistance to reduce illegal immigration, drug trafficking, terrorism and international crime. In order to increase regional integration, the Community will provide: - Encouragement and assistance as appropriate for the creation of regional cooperation structures; - EIB loans and budget resources to finance the economic infrastructure needed for increased regional trade, particularly in the fields of transport, communications and energy. An indicative amount from the Community budget of ECU 5.5 billion has been provided by the Commission for the Euro-Mediterranean partnership for the period 1995-1999. The text (TXT) field of this news item lists the proposed allocation of budget funds on a sectoral basis.
Countries
Cyprus, Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Malta, Syria, Tunisia, Türkiye