EU to double Congo aid

The European Commission is set to boost aid assistance to Congo for rehabilitation efforts following the country?s recent presidential elections. EU development commissioner Louis Michel said he wants the bloc’s member states to agree to double the country?s aid budget for 2008 through 2013 from the current $267 million allocation. The commission plans to “invest heavily in reconstructing the state, its capabilities and services, so that the Congolese people could reap the benefits of reconciliation and democracy.” EU will provide $33 million initial funding to strengthen the country?s governance and institutions. The commission is Congo?s major aid donor since 2001.

Source: EU to double aid to DRC (South African Press Association)