Press Release: Commission welcomes rise in EU development aid in difficult economic times but warns that efforts must be stepped-up

The European Commission welcomed the increase of aid levels, following the official announcement of the 2008 figures by the OECD. Despite the financial crisis, aid volumes provided by Member States have increased by around 8 percent in 2008. Fears remain however that the unfolding economic crisis will have a negative impact on the 2009 aid levels putting agreed 2010 targets in jeopardy. The Commission urges Member States to stick to their aid commitments as aid plays a vital countercyclical role in poor countries severely hit by the economic crisis.