A new chapter in the bilateral relations between Norway and Greece is marked by the agreement on the new Financial Mechanism EEA (European Economic Area) Norway 2021 – 2028 (known as EEA and Norway Grants), in Brussels, according to which Greece is to be allocated 159, 3 million euros.

With this agreement, as stated in a statement by the Norwegian embassy, ​​Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein have more than 3.268 billion euros in program and project grants in 15 EU member states, with Norway providing 97% of this. financing.

The beneficiary countries are: Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Greece.

Approximately 159.3 million euros will be allocated to Greece. Negotiations between the governments of Norway and Greece are expected to begin soon in order to shape the content of these programs and to define the agencies that will participate in their implementation. Programs will focus on Europe’s green transition, democracy, human rights and the rule of law, social inclusion and resilience.

The Ambassador of Norway to Greece Lajla Brandt Jakhelln expressed satisfaction at the signing of this new agreement, “which is an important pillar of cooperation between Norway and the European Union”.

“The Norwegian EEA Financial Mechanism is an important tool in further strengthening the bilateral cooperation between Norway and Greece. This year marks 30 years since the signing of the EEA Agreement, an agreement that brought our two countries closer through the single market. During the new program period, our countries will have the opportunity to work together by strengthening common values ​​and principles and to cooperate in the implementation of common programs and actions, based on social and economic stability, prosperity and security“, said the ambassador according to the same text.