Brussels, 12/09/2002 (Agence Europe) - On 12 September, the European Commission adopted a cooperation programme with the Republic of Congo for 2002-2007. It covers all areas of assistance to the country, focussing on combatting poverty, democratisation and strengthening the rule of law. An indicative allocation of EUR 50.4 million funding has been made. Poul Nielson, European Commissioner with responsibility for development and humanitarian aid, said of the decision: "The programme also reflects the political context in which the Republic of Congo will develop over the coming years. With the end of the transition period on 9 August and the creation of new institutions, the Government is committed to doing more to implement policies that will ensure observance and development of the democratic principles underlying the rule of law, good governance and national reconciliation. These are all essential for the restoration of peace and a relaunching of the development process. I very much want Community cooperation, under the new Cotonou Agreement, to make a significant contribution to this internal reform of the state and to moves to improve the democratic mechanisms through which the people are represented".