The Interreg-IPA cross-border programme between Bulgaria and Serbia was adopted. It will help reach key objectives for the region: efficient management of natural resources, increased cross-border networks and interactions, boosted tourism, preserved cultural and natural heritage and investments in youth, education and skills. The programme will also focus on environmental protection and the promotion of climate change adaptation and risk prevention and management.
The Vice President of the European Commission Kristalina Georgieva, who is responsible for the budget and human resources, outlined that it is the second programme for regional cooperation between Bulgaria and a neighbouring country, which the Commission adopts within a period less than a month.Bulgaria may collaborate actively with Serbia in the field of tourism, preservation of cultural heritage and environmental protection.
Corina Crețu, Commissioner for Regional Policy said: "This programme will help Bulgaria and Serbia develop their border region in an environmentally-friendly and sustainable way. Preserving the natural areas along the border and using their potential for economic development is an important step in the right direction."
The Interreg IPA CBC programme covers 6 border regions in Bulgaria and 7 Serbian regions. It is worth more than €34 million, with a contribution of nearly €29 million from the Indtrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA).
The focus of the Programme will be on three priorities – sustainable tourism, youth and environment.