RDPA ALBANIA KICKS OFF PHASE IV

Regional Development Programme Albania it’s kick starting phase IV of the programme, in the follow up of the inception and pilot phase which prepared the breeding ground on which the reform on Regional Development in Albania will further progress.

The main objective of RDPA phase IV remains the reducing of disparities in Albania by supporting the development of strong regions, so they can advance their potentials and provide better social and economic conditions for their citizens. An effective regional policy for Albania is vital, both to tackle the historic regional disparities and to respond to the challenges of the modern knowledge economy. Central government has an important role to play in trying to increase growth across all regions. A key task of government is to ensure that all regions share in the nation’s wealth and prosperity. This is done out of a belief in social justice, but also because the sustainable success of the country depends on all parts and all people of Albania achieving their full potential.

In this framework, Regional Development Programme Albania will continue to support the Albanian Government in successfully setting up and implementing Regional policy.

Main objectives and activities planned for phase 4 of the Programme are:

1. The central government successfully defines, coordinates and implements the institutional and legal framework for Regional Development.

As a result the Programme will:

• Provide support to the Government central institutions to coordinate, plan, monitor and evaluate Regional Development Policy application (NFRD planning and implementation);
• Provide support to the Central Government institutions to coordinate and implement Regional Policy through a transparent and needs oriented financing mechanism;
• Support the international exposure of Regional Development of Albania.

2. The ADF as managing authority and other competent institutions and bodies for regional development prepare and approve the programming frame for future use of EU funds and make effective and strategic use of increasing funds for the development of regions through partnership approach.

As a result the Programme will:

• Support the preparation process of Regional Development Planning and Programming documents through a participatory way;
• Support the partnership mechanism and approach for strategic use of increasing funds for the development of regions;
• Support Regional Development bodies and institutions capacities to manage the implementation of Regional Development Policy.

3. The socio-economic conditions for Albanian citizens are improved through the implementation of Regional Development projects reflecting regional needs and priorities.
   

As a result the Programme will:

• Support the Albanian Authorities capacities to establish a sound management and control system for managing public funds;
• Support potential grant beneficiaries to improve their capacities to develop project proposals addressing regional competitiveness and cohesion needs;
• Support Regional Development Units to strengthen their operational capacity to be engaged in preparation, implementation and monitoring of regional development grant schemes in partnership with national, regional and local level institutions.