Brussels, 29/08/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 29 August, Hungary signed a partnership agreement with the European Commission, which will allow it to benefit from European funding of €21.9 billion in structural funds. The agreement will create a framework for the use of this money, in accordance with the investment strategy laid down jointly. The investment priorities include reducing unemployment, innovation, education and making more efficient use of resources.
European Commissioner for Regional Policy Johannes Hahn stated that this investment strategy builds on “the great effort already deployed by Hungary” for the EU to reach its long-term development objectives.
The objectives to be met by Hungary (2012 reference) are the following: - increasing investment in research and development from 1.3% to 1.8%; - increasing total renewable energy consumption from 9.6% to 14.65%; - as regards education, around 30% of people in their 30s should acquire higher education degrees. The funds also aim to improve the business environment - particularly by reducing the administrative burden. (MD)