The programme will promote cooperation between ten EU member countries that include Cyprus, Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Greece, Malta and Gibraltar.

Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Creţu said: “Europe’s Mediterranean regions share common challenges when it comes to equipping their economies to compete in today’s competitive global environment, and safeguarding the Mediterranean’s unique natural and cultural heritage. I am glad that the EU is able to provide a framework for cooperation to address these challenges through the MED transnational programme.”

A further €9.3 million has been allocated to the programme from the EU’s Instrument for Pre-Accession (IPA).

The programme will focus on four main priorities that include, boosting innovation through collaboration between public authorities and research bodies to allow smart and sustainable growth.

Also includes, investing in low-carbon economy through energy efficiency, renewable energy production and use.

In addition it will enhance the Mediterranean governance through cooperation projects involving regional, national and international partners, so that decision making is improved and common strategies are found.

Lastly the programme will aim at protecting natural and cultural resources and biodiversity through joint analysis and planning as well as the transfer of good practice.

By implementing the above the programme expects results of growth in the public and private sector, increase access and use of sustainable transport, better management of energy and a whole 10% improvement of sustainable tourism in coastal regions.

The launch of the MED Programme 2014-2020 will take place on 23 June 2015 in Marseille.

Source: Cyprus Mail