23/03/2022 (Agence Europe) – On Wednesday 23 March, the European Commission adopted the rural development programmes for Albania (€112 million), North Macedonia (€97 million), Serbia (€288 million) and Turkey (€430 million) under the EU pre-accession assistance for rural development (IPARD) for the period 2021-2027. Supported financially by the EU, the countries concerned and private organisations, these programmes aim to increase the competitiveness of the agri-food sector, promote sustainable management of natural resources, strengthen climate action and improve the attractiveness of their rural areas. They also support investments to meet EU standards, including upgrading buildings and machinery and developing skills. More info at: https://aeur.eu/f/wl (MB)