Local view for "http://purl.org/linkedpolitics/eu/plenary/2007-02-14-Speech-3-408"
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"en.20070214.25.3-408"2
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"Mr President, as I take the floor in the debate on Mr Gahler’s report on budget aid for developing countries, I should like to draw attention to the fact that, above all else, the award of this aid demonstrates the European Union’s implementation of the principle of solidarity in its relations with third countries. It appears, however, that allowing free access to the European Union market for goods from those countries would be a far more effective way of supporting them.
Unfortunately, the various restrictions on access to the European Union market and to the markets of other developed countries the world over, notably the United States, mean that the Union’s budget aid is a very important instrument for supporting developing countries. Given this situation, in which highly developed countries defend their markets from access by products from developing countries, it is very important to ensure that financial aid to these countries is provided on the basis of clear and transparent principles.
Firstly, budget aid must only be provided to third countries when it is clear that it will generate a positive outcome. Secondly, such aid should be directed primarily at reducing poverty, which is casting shame on the 21st century. Thirdly, European aid must be subject to parliamentary control, both on the part of the donor and on that of the recipient of the aid. Fourthly, budget aid from the European Union must be used first and foremost to support macro-economic reforms in the recipient country.
Fifthly, it is important to ensure that a substantial amount of the aid is used to foster primary and secondary education in the recipient countries, as well as healthcare. These are the two most important areas requiring long-term support. Sixthly, it should be borne in mind that significant financial aid could trigger the emergence of corrupt activities. It is therefore essential for the decision-making processes concerning budget aid to be clear and transparent.
In conclusion, I would like to express my hope that the substantial financial resources made available to third countries by the European Union will serve not only to assist the development of those countries, but also to ensure that the European Union is recognised as a major force in international relations in our globalised world."@en1
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