The European Commission today launched the programming of funds from the Instrument for Pre-Accession (IPA) for 2012 and 2013, offering more than EUR 200 million of grant assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mr Stefano Sannino, Director General of the Directorate General for Enlargement of the European Commission, presented the conclusions of the High Level meeting on IPA coordination held on 14 November 2011 – which represent the basis for the beginning of the IPA 2012 and IPA 2013 programming process – and the main priorities for IPA 2012/2013.

During the meeting, representatives of the European Commission outlined the programming orientations and priorities, together with the main characteristics of the programming process for 2012.

The main phases, deadlines and forms of involvement and responsibilities of the main actors in the process were highlighted.

The priority areas and sectors for 2011-2013 are: justice and home affairs, public administration reform, private sector development, transport, environment and climate change, social development and Acquis related and other actions.

Commenting, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina/EU Special Representative Ambassador Peter Sorensen said:

„This week has shown the commitment of the European Union to Bosnia and Herzegovina. We are ready to support the whole country on its journey towards membership of the Union. The allocation of assistance funds for this purpose is a concrete demonstration of that commitment.

„Together with the state level and Entity institutions we have made good progress on the co-ordination of EU and IPA-related issues. We have also brought a focus onto some specific issues related to EU integration such as transport and energy.

„Most importantly these funds can make a powerful difference to the daily lives of citizens. Better administration, better infrastructure and higher standards in different sectors can be welcomed by everyone. I now look forward to strong engagement from the institutions at all levels in the country.“