The European Union's latest Development Cooperation Programme "European Union Support to Socio Economic Measures in North and East Sri Lanka - EU SEM” was lauched today by EU Ambassador Bernard Savage.
At the press conference held to mark the launch of aid program at Galle Face Hotel, Colombo Ambassador Savage said “ This EU-funded programme will complement the national efforts in improving the living standards of local communities in terms of livelihoods, local economy development and strengthening of social services.”
Under the program the EU has pledged Rs. 490 million for a project implemented under UNICEF in Mullaitivu Vaunia, Trincomalee and Batticaloa districts. A Rs. 500 million aid block has been allocated to Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts for a FAO project and Rs.420 million to Mullaitivu for a agriculture project by German Agro Action. Further Rs.400 million has been earmarked to Mannar, Kilinochchi, Battocaloa and Ampara districts for livelihoods project by ZOA and Rs.240 million for development project by ACTED.
The EU ambassador said” The Government Agents of the selected districts will play a pivotal role in the coordination of the programme by chairing the District Steering Committees.”
The EU - SEM programme builds on previous humanitarian assistance interventions by EU over the period 2009- 2013 for an amount of EUR 53 million (roughly LKR 8 billion). This program ealier aimed at supporting rehabilitation activities following the end of the conflict and the resettlement of IDPs.