The 2014-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework earmarked approximately EUR 1.13 billion for Malta, of which 914 million for cohesion policies and agriculture, 120 million for migration and internal security, and 94 million for the “Connecting Europe Facility”. As a result of its small size and insular nature, Malta will also benefit from a series of measures that will facilitate the use of EU funds that include an extension from three to four years of the period within which the projects are to be implemented.
The operational plans presented by Malta, still under negotiation in Brussels, have two main objectives: to develop initiatives in the innovation and research sector and foster a shift to an economy more compliant with EU pollution emissions goals. With regard to the instruments for implementing EU cross-border cohesion policies, the Italy-Malta Operational Programme was newly financed, which will involve all the provinces of Sicily –not only those along the Sicilian Channel – along with the Maltese archipelago over the next seven years. With overall funding of more than EUR 50 million (44 million of which from the European Fund for Regional Development), the programme aims to contribute to sustainable and inclusive cross-border growth, promote research and innovation and SME competitiveness, protect the environment and mitigate the effects of climate change. It will also be able to benefit from additional funding as compared with the past. Calls for project presentations will take place over the coming year.
Sourse: infoMercatiEsteri
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