17/07/2013 (Agence Europe) - EU releases €100 million to develop infrastructure in South Africa and the region. This programme, combining subsidies and loans, will enable the co-financing of investment in domains such as transport and logistics, energy, water/environment, information and communication technology (ICT) and social infrastructure. The development of infrastructure is part of the EU's support programme for South Africa. Allocated a budget of €980 million for the budgetary period 2007-2013, the programme aims to reduce poverty and inequality. “South Africa is currently held back by its infrastructure, which restricts people's access to health, education and job opportunities”, said European Commissioner for Development Andris Piebalgs. He concluded that “by taking an innovative approach, our new support programme will help to significantly boost trade in the region and get the country on the road to further growth”. (LM/transl.fl)