EC/Turkey relations: implementation of measures to promote economic and social development

OBJECTIVE: to implement measures to promote economic and social development in Turkey in the context of closer and stronger relations between Turkey and the EU. CONTENT: with a budget of ECU 135 million for a 3-year period (1999-2001), this aid will provide support to Turkey's efforts in the areas of economic and social development. More precisely, this aid will be used in the following areas: - modernising manufacturing, improving institutional and infrastructure capacity in Turkey (environment, transport, energy); - promotion of industrial cooperation (diversification in industry and the creation of SMEs); - cooperation in telecommunications, infrastructure, rural development and social services; - boosting the capacity of the Turkish economy (restructuring of the country's public sector and private initiative); - cooperation in protecting health; - regional and cross-border cooperation; - any form of cooperation seeking to defend and promote democracy, the rule of law, human rights and the protection of minorities; - cooperation on humanitarian issues; - all forms of assistance aimed at promoting the development of relations between the European Union and Turkey. Where appropriate, measures could be taken to underpin a structural adjustment programme, taking into account Turkey's particular economic and social circumstances, possible negative impact in social and employment terms and Turkey's levels of indebtedness and unemployment. Assistance is subject to compliance with the Community democracy clause. Thus, where an essential element for the continuation of assistance to Turkey is lacking, the Council, acting by qualified majority, may decide upon appropriate measures. Assistance will be in the form of non-refundable grants for technical assistance, training or other services, supplies and works. The beneficiaries of projects and operations may include not only the Turkish state but also associations, cooperatives etc. or any non-governmental organisation or member of the civil society. A financial contribution (or contribution in kind) from the Turkish partners will be sought within their means. Opportunities for co-financing with other providers of funds may also be sought. Management of this assistance will be undertaken by the Commission, in coordination with the Member States. It will be assisted by the MED committee set up by Regulation 1488/96/EC (MEDA regulation). The projects financed will be selected by the Commission on the basis of a number of criteria, the most important of which are the effectiveness and viability of operations and equal opportunities for men and women. The necessary measures will be taken to emphasise the Community character of the aid provided. The Commission will also be responsible for the regular evaluation of the assistance and the publication of annual reports on the actions financed. An final evaluation of the assistance will be required 3 years after the entry into force of the regulation, together with suggestions regarding the future of the aid.�