European Commission has approved Operational Programme “Growth and Employment” for 2014-2020 Programming Period
On Thursday, November 13, the European Commission (EC) approved officially Operational Programme “Growth and Employment” for the European Union (EU) funds 2014-2020 programming period, within the framework of which there will be 4.4 billion euro available for Latvia. Latvia is among the first Member States having the operational programme officially approved. The operational programme sets forth principles for the investment of EU funds, results to be achieved and fields to be supported in the next seven years.
“The fact that Latvia is among the first countries having its operational programme approved by the EC proves that the cooperation between the Ministry of Finance, EC, line ministries and other partners involved in the development of this programme was successful. The operational programme provides a stable basis for the investment of EU funds in the following seven years in the goals resulting in the biggest possible return for our country and broadest possible growth possibilities. It is the first significant step made together with the EC and partners towards Latvia’s development, however, we will have to make other steps independently,” indicates Finance Minister Janis Reirs.
In 2014-2020 the most significant investments are planned to reduce the number of citizens under the poverty risk by providing appropriate training, improving their health condition and integrating them into the labour market, as well as to facilitate the employment by integrating long-term unemployed persons and young people in the labour market. Support of EU funds is also planned to reduce the consumption of primary energy by improving energy-efficiency in the private and public housing stock, improving energy-efficiency in the industrial production and supporting increase in the energy-efficiency of the public transport.
It is also planned to increase investments in the research and development, promotion of the private investment attraction, as well as to activate cooperation between research institutions and businessmen. Investments of EU funds are also planned to improve information and communication technologies and transport infrastructure having a direct impact on the economic productivity, underlying innovations and increasing internal and external mobility of people and goods.
In the operational programme the link with the EU 2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth, National Development Plan 2020, as well as other planning documents is maintained. The strategic approach is based on the analysis of shortcomings and needs, while solutions are oriented towards effective and sustainable growth and results. Defined priorities and specific goals of support are focused on the achievement of particular results providing the biggest possible return for the economic development and rising the quality of life of people.
It is planned that the Operational Programme Opening Ceremony will take place on November 22 with participation of Prime Minister Laimdota and Finance Minister Janis Reirs.
Information prepared by:
Ieva Raboviča
Senior Expert of Communication Department
Phone: 67095880
Ieva.Rabovica@fm.gov.lv
