Norwegian Financing Mechanism deals signed

Hungary hassigned new partnership agreements on EUR 153 million in funding from the European Economic Area (EEA) and the Norwegian Financing Mechanisms the country is getting in the years 2009-2014.

The agreements were signed by the Norwegian ambassador to Hungary Siri Ellen Sletner, Icelandic ambassador Stefan Skjaldarson and National Development Ministry deputy state secretary Tamás Iván Kovács in Gödöllõ, near Budapest.

Under the Agreements, programs will be set up to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy, and to tackle climate change. In the renewable energy program, the Icelandic National Energy Authority (OS) will contribute using its considerable experience in the field of geothermal energy. The Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning (DSB) will participate in the climate change program.

The largest single program will contribute to a ‘greener’ economy through support for green innovation and entrepreneurship. Innovation Norway will be a partner both in this, as well as in a programme to strengthen decent work and improve dialogue between social partners and public authorities.

Other significant areas include support for public health and for children and youth at risk, including vulnerable groups such as the Roma. Support to cultural heritage will continue with involvement from the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage.

Building on the strong cooperation already established in the previous funding period, two programs will be set up to promote bilateral cooperation between Hungary and Norway - one within academic research and the other to support for capacity-building in the public sector.

Eligible projects will be within the areas of environment, health, social sciences and humanities, with the Norwegian Research Council on board as a program partner.