Statement: Statement by the High Representative and Vice-President Federica Mogherini and Commissioner for International Cooperation and Development Neven Mimica

On 2 March 2015 the full entry into force of the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) was marked.

This is a cornerstone of the EU's international cooperation and development policy that implements partnership and dialogue with African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries under the ACP-EU Cotonou Agreement. The EDF also covers cooperation with the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) as laid down in the Overseas Association Decision.

With a total of €30.5 billion, the 11th EDF was set up to finance EU development cooperation projects until 2020 to assist partner countries' own efforts in poverty eradication.

ESO: Background information: Regional policy and coordination of structural instruments: European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) http://www.europeansources.info/record/regional-policy-and-coordination-of-structural-instruments-european-regional-development-fund-erdf/

---