The event is hosted by Mr Šime Erlić, the State Secretary in the Ministry for Regional Development and the EU Funds. The speakers include the Ambassador of Norway to the Republic of Croatia Mr Haakon Blankenborg, Croatian minister of Justice and Administration, Mr Ivan Malenica and Norwegian and Croatian programme partners. The programme will be live-streamed and the public can follow it via the You Tube.
The EEA and Norway Grants represent Norway’s contribution to 15 European countries in reducing social and economic disparities in the European Economic Area (EEA). The Grants scheme also strengthens ties and cooperation between Norway and the beneficiary countries.
In Croatia, the Grants consist of six programmes totalling EUR 103,4 million. Innovation and business development programme puts an emphasis to green industry innovation and blue growth. In the field of justice, priority is given to efforts to make the courts more effective and judiciary services more accessible. Other focus areas include renewable energy, education, decent work and civil society.
The Ministry of Regional Development is the national body responsible for the implementation of the Grants in Croatia.