Brussels, 14/05/2012 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission will, on Tuesday of this week, adopt its regular monitoring reports on the state of play in relations between the EU and 12 neighbourhood countries (Ukraine, Moldova, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Morocco, Tunisia, Israel, the Palestinian Territories, Lebanon, Egypt and Jordan). It will be looking to assess how the new European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) has been put in place and to make recommendations to the countries concerned on the areas where progress will have to be achieved in the next 12-18 months, stated a high-ranking EU official. He said the Commission wants “things to be clear with regard to what they have to do”, while the partner countries “will have to make commitments”. “Overall the picture is positive, but there are things that have to be improved or done better”, the official said, highlighting support for civil society, tackling corruption, encouraging “inclusive” growth, and respect for minorities and women's rights. He indicated that the EU was keeping a particularly close eye on the situation in Egypt, and the human rights situation in Ukraine and Azerbaijan.
“Less for less”. The official stated that the concept of “less for less” would be difficult to put into practice. “'Less for less' is complicated but it can already been seen in action with regard to certain countries”, he said, citing the examples of Syria and Belarus. Under the “less for less” concept, which was brought in as part of the reform of the ENP in 2011 (see EUROPE 10386), the EU reviews and, if necessary, reduces its aid to those countries where the recommended reforms have not materialised. According to the official, “all that the EU has achieved is impressive, though a number of points are still works in progress”. He pointed out that the EU has made additional funding available, and has made progress with its partners in accession negotiations and in talks on association and trade agreements, as well as in sectoral cooperation. Two communications, one on the ENP and the other setting out a roadmap on the Eastern Partnership, will be adopted. (CG/transl.rt)