The European Union is providing another EUR 63.9 million for Kosovo's socio-economic and institutional development. The funds are available under the European Commission's Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance 2010 annual programme.

The funds will be spent on strengthening the rule of law, governance, public administration reform, communities and education, addressing socio-economic issues, such as public finance, regional economic development, including infrastructure, agriculture and rural development. The programme also focuses on the approximation of the legislation and European standards, including on veterinary and food safety, energy sector reform, and the environment.

The European Commission and the government jointly decide which projects will be financed with this money.

For the period from 2007 to 2012 the EU has allocated altogether EUR 565.1 million to Kosovo.

EC and Kosovo officials discuss rule of law within SAP Dialogue

The European Commission and the government of Kosovo held a round of discussions in the framework of the Stabilisation and Association Process (SAP) Dialogue on Justice, Freedom and Security.

The discussion was focused on the issues raised by the 2010 EC Progress Report, alongside fundamental rights and protection of minorities. Fighting corruption and organised crime as well as reintegration capacities were some of the topics tackled.

EU completes reconstruction of key bridges in Kosovo

The EC Liaison Office inaugurated five reconstructed bridges along the M2 road that connects Kosovo with the fYROM border. This was the last group of the 17 reconstructed bridges in total in this important route for the economy of Kosovo. The EU funded reconstruction worth EUR 15 million was carried on since 1999. Works around the bridges have applied European standards design that will meet the needs of heavy traffic.

RAE families moved from Osterode Camp to Mitrovica

Thirty-eight Roma, Ashkali and Egyptian (RAE) families were successfully resettled from the lead contaminated Osterode Camp to Roma Mahalla in Mitrovica with the help of EU funds. They will live in new houses after having lived 11 years in the camp. The EU also reconstructed the houses of eight receiving community families. The resettlement is part of the €5 million EU-funded project whose ultimate aim to close the lead-contaminated camps in North Mitrovica, Osterode and Cesmin Lug.

EU grants boost farming in Kosovo

The EU has awarded grants worth EUR 5 million to boost farming in Kosovo. The financial aid will be shared amongst 13 selected companies that deal with processing of dairy, meat, fruits and vegetables products. Besides processing, companies are encouraged to improve marketing and quality as well as to meet food safety standards that would expand market domestically and for export.

These grants will increase the contribution of agricultural and rural development sector to the economic growth in Kosovo.

New infrastructure works launched across Kosovo

The EC Liaison Office introduced 18 schemes to improve infrastructure around Kosovo. Worth EUR 27 million, they include building of new offices for five municipalities, new schools and sports facilities, a health centre, and a bridge; boost water supply and upgrade energy supply Kosovo-wide.

Human rights and democracy supported through civil society grants

Seven civil society organisations received the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights grants, funded by the EU. The organisations will be engaged in women's rights protection, promoting culture with focus on children and youth, provision of free legal aid targeting mainly minority and marginalised communities, prevention of human trafficking and promotion of freedom of expression.

EU presents masterplan for Brezovica ski centre

A masterplan for the economic recovery of Brezovica ski centre has been presented by the EU. The plan aims to combine investment with preservation of the natural environment.

It also suggests a new skiing area to the west of the existing ski slopes with a capacity of hosting over 10,000 guests.

EU installs public clock in Prizren

The first public clock funded by the EU was installed in Prizren. The idea was implemented by the Regional Development Agency South in February, as a service to the general public. The clock is placed in Shatërvan/Sadrvan Square, by Arasta Bridge.

This email was sent to you on behalf of the European Commission Liaison Office to Kosovo.
To modify your subscription, including subscribing to other languages, please visit our website.
If you wish to unsubscribe from our newsletter, please click here.