BRUSSELS – The European Union (EU) has allocated 410 million euros (about 510 million dollars), under its bilateral cooperation with Cambodia between 2014 to 2020 to continue its support for the country.
According to a statement issued by the EU Commission on Monday, the multi-annual indicative programme represents a tripling of EU assistance to Cambodia compared to the previous period of 2007 to 2013.
EU Foreign Policy Chief, Federica Mogherini, said “the substantial increase of our bilateral assistance is a sign of our commitment to Cambodia’s economic, social and political development.”
Mogherini explained that Cambodia had made progress recently in all these areas and hoped the EU support would further contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic growth and strengthen the democratic process.
Neven Mimica, Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development, said that the funds would continue to support Cambodia’s successful poverty reduction efforts.
Mimica said that the EU was committed to helping Cambodia achieve its reform agenda particularly in the areas of education and skills, agriculture and natural resource management, good governance and administration.
The statement said in addition to this bilateral programme, Cambodia would continue to receive support under other EU thematic and regional instruments and programmes. (Xinhua/NAN)