The European Union (EU) has allocated 14.5 million euros for Azerbaijan as part of the program on the country’s regional development, the Azerbaijani Economy Ministry said.
The agreement, signed during the meeting between Azerbaijan’s Economy Minister Shahin Mustafayev and EU Ambassador to Azerbaijan Malena Mard, envisages twinning and technical assistance, creation of an information system for business in rural area, improvement of support system for development of rural areas in the context of development of small and medium enterprises and family farming, introduction of consulting services system on agriculture, information support, enlightenment of consumers.
During the meeting, Mustafayev said that the EU was Azerbaijan’s main trade partner with a specific weight of 50%. Meanwhile, EU countries account for 35% of non-oil investments.
The minister noted that Azerbaijan played an important role in ensuring Europe’s energy security. As of today, 26 projects have been implemented in Azerbaijan as part of the cooperation with the EU and additional 11 projects are being implemented.
Malena Mard noted the need to expand relations in other areas, besides the energy sector.
The ambassador added that she would continue her efforts for the development of the EU’s cooperation with Azerbaijan. (Trend/Business World Magazine)
