Boosting intraregional trade very important
“We have assisted in many workshops like this, and assisted with negotiation, so I know how difficult it is, because you have countries thinking that their own system is the best, and the other countries should adapt to theirs, rather than really reaching a consensus,” she said.
Kofler made the comments as she reflected on the speed at which countries are taking advantage of the 10th European Development Fund (EDF). Even as she acknowledged that there have been some delays in implementation, she said this has not stopped European Commission officials from coming up with the structure for the 11th EDF.
“It could be faster, but I think sometimes it also that our rules are very complicated; I don’t want to deny that. But that is because we have 28 member states that are really looking at how we are spending our funds and want to have transparency and fairness in how the funds are allocated. That’s why it is so complicated, it is not the European Commission’s fault, because the money comes from taxpayers in Europe and you have to be accountable to them,” she said.
Kofler spoke of the delays as she referred to the 10th European Development Fund SPS Measures Project, which expires in March next year, noting that there is less than a year left to complete it. (JRT)