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Athens News Agency: News in English, 05-11-22
CONTENTS
[01] General Affairs Council focuses on EU strategy in Africa
[01] General Affairs Council focuses on EU strategy in Africa
The General Affairs Council convened in Brussels on Tuesday, focusing
on the shaping of the European Union's strategy in Africa and EU policy
on development aid. Greece's positions were outlined by Deputy Foreign
Minister Evripidis Stylianidis.
Speaking after the Council, Stylianidis said that on the issue of EU
strategy in Africa, particular emphasis was placed on preventing
illegal emigration from Africa to Europe, the EU's contribution to
developing the infrastructures which shall create preconditions for
viable development, the handling of AIDS and the development of
education.
Stylianidis further said that Greece has expressed its support for
peace processes in the region, underlining economic aid through
development activities in Africa.
He mentioned that in 2003 Greece had spent 13.66 million dollars for
development activities in Africa and 40.46 million dollars in 2004,
while an increase in these funds is anticipated for 2005-2006.
The Council ratified a Declaration on the EU's development policy
which, following intervention by the Greek delegation as well,
anticipates that EU candidate countries can constitute target countries
for development aid, with emphasis being placed on Western Balkan and
Black Sea zone countries.
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