The European Commission adopted today the new transnational cooperation programme “Interreg V B Adriatic-Ionian (ADRION)”, worth more than €83.4 million from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and almost €16 million from the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA II). The total value of the cooperation programme, with national contributions included, is €118 million.

The Programme will support the implementation of the priorities of the European Union Strategy for the Adriatic-Ionian Region (EUSAIR).  It will enhance economic, social, and territorial cohesion in the region. The programme’s geographical area is identical to the area covered by the EUSAIR, involving four EU countries (Greece, Croatia, Italy and Slovenia), with the participation of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Serbia.

Commissioner for Regional Policy Corina Crețu said: “This programme has been designed to directly contribute to the successful implementation of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic-Ionian Region, exploiting and protecting the rich natural, cultural and human potential of the region. It will have a tangible and positive impact on the regional economy, with a special focus on enhanced innovation and research capacities.”

The programme will boost the region’s capacity to protect its natural assets. Thanks to the programme, the Adriatic and Ionian area will also benefit from a more integrated transport and mobility system. Finally, strengthening administrative capacity in the region is also one of the focuses of the programme.