Brussels, 12/10/2004 (Agence Europe) - The Council of the EU has welcomed the positive decision by the Court of Auditors (special report No. 15/2003) on European Development Fund financed microprojects and implemented by the European Commission for ACP countries (Africa, Caribbean, Pacific). It recognised the usefulness of these micro-projects that, "provide a real service to the populations of the ACP countries, give a convincing example of the efficient use of EDF resources and meet the objectives of Community cooperation to support civil society and fight poverty". To guarantee that these microprojects are sustainable, the Council believes it useful to boost the capacity of local administrations in partners countries and improve the organisation of the Commission's central services. It also recognises the need for delegations to be provided with precise and consistent guidelines that are appropriate for microprojects, so that they can monitor the implementation of programmes more effectively.
These orientations were listed in the Council's conclusions adopted without debate during its session on 4 October.