Brussels, 08/03/2000 (Agence Europe) - The Council ruled on its "common position" on the Parliament and Council regulation that is the framework for co-operation and development of the EU with South Africa during the next five years. The aim is to continue the European programme for the reconstruction and development of South Africa (EPRD) that expired at the end of 1999. The Council's common position foresees the granting of a financial purse of EUR 787.5 million for the 2000-2006 period (or EUR 157.5 million a year against the EUR 125 million per year previously) for the implementation of the financial and technical co-operation. These are aiming to support the policies and reforms undertaken by the South African authorities in the framework of the political dialogue and the partnership with the European Union.
This financial assistance will be added to the co-operation already taking place in several other areas, foreseen by the trade agreement, for development and co-operation between the EU and South Africa, who are in force since the 1 January. Granted in the form of non-repayable aid, it will be covered by a special financial instrument in the framework of the Community budget.
The EPRD was created after the elections in April 1994 and the formation of a democratic government in South Africa to contribute towards the long-lasting economic, social and harmonious development of South Africa through programmes and measures centred on: i) the reduction of poverty and the promotion of economic growth targeted at the least well off; ii) the continued economic integration of the country into the global economy; iii) the consolidation of the roots of a democratic society and a State where there is respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
EUROPE recalls that during the difficult negotiations for the trade, co-operation and development agreement, South Africa insisted that the EU undertakes to renew the financial aid granted in the framework of EPRD since 1996 (Regulation Nº 2259/96).