Publieke consultatie over de toekomst van Europese investeringen in Kroatië (en)
On Wednesday 4th December, The European Commission will participate in the launch of a significant public consultation on Croatia’s future investment priorities, in order to make the most of EU Funds for the 2014-2020 budgetary period.
The online consultation, which is open to the public for 2 months, is the biggest of its kind in Croatia. European Commission Deputy Director Normunds Poppens for Regional and Urban Policy will be in Zagreb to support the consultation process which will be integrated into the investment strategy for EU funds 2014-2020 period in the newest EU Member State. It will contribute that spending priorities not only respond to the development needs of the country in a focused and strategic way, but also fit into the delivery of the EU’s overall goals of smart, inclusive and green growth for all.
Commenting on the launch, Commissioner for Regional Policy Johannes Hahn i said: “This is a vital step in setting up a continuous partnership and two-way communication channel with all interested partners. I urge Croatian citizens to have their say and help shape the future of investments in their regions. Our experience shows that partnership significantly improves the quality and the implementation of public policies”
The European Commission is welcoming the continued efforts of the Croatian administration in the preparation of implementation of EU Cohesion Policy for 2014‑2020. The EU will channel must needed investment into Croatia, which can help address the social and economic challenges facing the country, if implemented with a strategic and joined-up approach.
Strategies are a pre-requisite for a clear focus in using the EU Funds, for example for innovation, for the transport sector or for environmental investments. Water and waste strategies are clear priorities for a sustainable management of resources in Croatia. The European Commission is welcoming the progress in the implementation of modern waste management centres, such as the one being built in Kaštijun in Istarska County.
With a total cost of just over €35 million and an EU contribution of over €25m, the Kaštijun project aims to introduce a sustainable and integrated waste management system in the county of Istria, reducing the reliance on landfill. Over 200 000 residents in the county area will benefit from this development with a long-term positive impact on their quality of life.
The construction of the Kaštijun waste management centre is already underway, including a wastewater treatment plant and a recycling yard, with opening planned for late 2014.