BISHKEK (TCA) — The European Union (EU) and German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) on December 5 launched the Integrated Rural Development Programme in Jalal-Abad region in southern Kyrgyzstan, the Delegation of the European Union to the Kyrgyz Republic reported.
The event, marking the official start of the programme, gathered the representatives of international, national and local partners to exchange greetings, learn about the programme and discuss possible cooperation measures.
The Integrated Rural Development Programme is implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and co-funded by the EU and German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The programme budget amounts to 11.3 million Euro, of which 9.8 million is funded by the EU. Its measures contribute to local social and economic development through maximising the potential of the region in agriculture and tourism sectors. In line with national strategies, the programme aims at fostering economic clusters in the region. The programme works from October 2018 until November 2022.
The Programme aims at improving income opportunities of rural population, especially among women, youth and vulnerable groups in southern Kyrgyzstan with the focus on Jalal-Abad region. Via multiple measures such as calls for proposals, small investments and capacity building, it supports local farmers, providers of tourism services, civil society and local self-governments.
The Ambassador of the EU to the Kyrgyz Republic Eduard Auer and Deputy Ambassador of Germany to Kyrgyzstan Irja Berg took part in the kick-off event in Jalal-Abad.
