Brussels, 29/08/2012 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday 28 August the European Commission said that it would give new support of €60 million to Georgia, in particular for agriculture and food safety. This support will focus on small farmers' associations and will help government institutions respond more effectively to the needs of the rural economy. The European aid will also support private farmers' associations, strengthen cooperation between farmers and increase food safety, thanks to technical training and advice.
This Annual Action Programme 2012 will also help institutional reform with the strengthening of the institutions whose job it is to prepare and implement Tbilisi's political association and economic integration with the EU, including the deep and comprehensive free trade area. The aid includes advising and supporting the institutions which coordinate the negotiations, and also equipping institutions - such as the national food agency - with specialised laboratories to fulfil new obligations under the agreements, in particular the respect of European standards. (CG/transl.fl)