165.8 million euros for supporting reform efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The European Commission adopted the Indicative Strategic Document for Bosnia and Herzegovina on December 15. The document defines the priorities for financial support from the European Union for the period 2014-2017, with the aim of supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina on its path towards European integration, it was announced today from the EU Delegation, reports the BiH news agency Patria.

- The EU plans to support sectoral reforms in the amount of 165.8 million euros in the following sectors: democracy and governance; rule of law and fundamental rights; competitiveness and innovation: local development strategies; and education, employment and social policies. Funds will be available through the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA II). The authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina were involved in determining the key areas that will benefit most from this assistance - it was announced.

The European Parliament and EU member states, as well as civil society organizations, international organizations, and financial institutions were consulted in this process. The Commission is ready to extend IPA support to other sectors, including those where the allocation of additional funds is justified, once Bosnia and Herzegovina adopts relevant state strategic documents.

- This assistance arrives at a very important time for Bosnia and Herzegovina. It will support the renewed approach of the European Union as well as the implementation of reforms that will have a direct impact on citizens and help the country move forward on its path to the EU - stated Johannes Hahn, European Commissioner for Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations.