08/06/2010 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 8 June, the Ecofin Council adopted, without discussions, a general approach on the draft decision amending the mandate of the European Investment Bank (EIB) on lending for projects outside the EU (which account for around 10% of the EIB's total activities). The amendment follows the group of the wise report carried out as part of the interim review (see EUROPE 10083). As expected, ministers decided to activate the €2 billion held in reserve, set aside in 2006 when the overall funding level for the Bank's overseas activities for 2007-2013 was decided. This sum will be dedicated to projects that tackle climate change in eligible countries. (A.B./transl.rt)