Brussels, 18/07/2014 (Agence Europe) - On a visit to Georgia on Friday 18 July, Commissioner for Enlargement Stefan Füle was to announce the 2014 annual action programme for Georgia, with a budget of €101 million.
€51 million will be earmarked for supporting the Deep and Comprehensive Free-Trade Area and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The funds will facilitate the reform of trade and the development of the private sector, with particular focus on SMEs. Georgian SMEs will benefit from subsidies and services, to increase their understanding of the free-trade area and to strengthen their exports to the EU. The funding will also help to reinforce core trade institutions, whose ability to function well is critical for the correct implementation of the Deep and Comprehensive Free-Trade Area in the coming years, the Commission adds.
The other €50 million will help to support the reform of the justice sector. The new programme will help to consolidate the independence, professionalism, impartiality and effectiveness of the legal system, access to justice and right to a fair trial. This aid will help to improve the administration of justice, consolidate the rule of law and strengthen human rights protection in line with international and European standards. (CG)