(1)

Article 174 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (‘TFEU’) provides that, in order to strengthen its economic, social and territorial cohesion, the Union is to aim at reducing disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and the backwardness of the least favoured regions or islands, and that particular attention is to be paid to rural areas, areas affected by industrial transition, and regions which suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps. Article 175 of the TFEU requires that the Union is to support the achievement of these objectives by the action it takes through the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund, Guidance Section, the European Social Fund, the European Regional Development Fund, the European Investment Bank and other instruments. Article 322 of the TFEU provides the basis for adopting financial rules determining the procedure to be adopted for establishing and implementing the budget and for presenting and auditing accounts, as well as for checks on the responsibility of financial actors.

(1)

Article 174 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (‘TFEU’) provides that, in order to strengthen its economic, social and territorial cohesion, the Union is to aim at reducing disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and the backwardness of the least favoured regions or islands, and that particular attention is to be paid to rural areas, areas affected by industrial transition, and regions which suffer from severe and permanent natural or demographic handicaps . These regions particularly benefit from cohesion policy . Article 175 of the TFEU requires that the Union is to support the achievement of these objectives by the action it takes through the European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund, Guidance Section, the European Social Fund, the European Regional Development Fund, the European Investment Bank and other instruments. Article 322 of the TFEU provides the basis for adopting financial rules determining the procedure to be adopted for establishing and implementing the budget and for presenting and auditing accounts, as well as for checks on the responsibility of financial actors.

(1 a)

It is important for the future of the European Union and its citizens that cohesion policy remains the main investment policy of the Union, keeping its funding in the 2021-2027 period at least at the level of the 2014-2020 programming period. New funding for other areas of activity or programmes of the Union should not be to the detriment of the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund Plus or the Cohesion Fund.

(2)

In order to further develop a coordinated and harmonised implementation of Union Funds implemented under shared management namely the European Regional Development Fund (‘ERDF’), the European Social Fund Plus (‘ESF+’), the Cohesion Fund, measures financed under shared management in the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (‘EMFF’), the Asylum and Migration Fund (‘AMIF’), Internal Security Fund (‘ISF’) and Integrated Border Management Fund (‘BMVI’), financial rules based on Article 322 of the TFEU should be established for all these Funds (‘the Funds’), clearly specifying the scope of application of the relevant provisions. In addition, common provisions based on Article 177 of the TFEU should be established to cover policy specific rules for the ERDF, the ESF+, the Cohesion Fund and the EMFF.

(2)

In order to further develop a coordinated and harmonised implementation of Union Funds implemented under shared management namely the European Regional Development Fund (‘ERDF’), the European Social Fund Plus (‘ESF+’), the Cohesion Fund, measures financed under shared management in the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (‘EMFF’), the Asylum and Migration Fund (‘AMIF’), Internal Security Fund (‘ISF’) and Integrated Border Management Fund (‘BMVI’), financial rules based on Article 322 of the TFEU should be established for all these Funds (‘the Funds’), clearly specifying the scope of application of the relevant provisions. In addition, common provisions based on Article 177 of the TFEU should be established to cover policy specific rules for the ERDF, the ESF+, the Cohesion Fund, the EMFF and to a specific extent the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) .

(4)

The outermost regions and the northern sparsely populated regions should benefit from specific measures and from additional funding pursuant to Article 349 of the TFEU and Article 2 of Protocol No 6 to the 1994 Act of Accession.

(4)

The outermost regions and the northern sparsely populated regions should benefit from specific measures and from additional funding pursuant to Article 349 of the TFEU and Article 2 of Protocol No 6 to the 1994 Act of Accession in order to address their specific disadvantages related to their geographic location .

(5)

Horizontal principles as set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on the European Union (‘TEU’) and in Article 10 of the TFEU, including principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as set out in Article 5 of the TEU should be respected in the implementation of the Funds, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Member States should also respect the obligations of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and ensure accessibility in line with its article 9 and in accordance with the Union law harmonising accessibility requirements for products and services. Member States and the Commission should aim at eliminating inequalities and at promoting equality between men and women and integrating the gender perspective, as well as at combating discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. The Funds should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation. The objectives of the Funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the Union's promotion of the aim of preserving, protecting and improving the quality of the environment as set out in Article 11 and Article 191(1) of the TFEU, taking into account the polluter pays principle. In order to protect the integrity of the internal market, operations benefitting undertakings shall comply with Union State aid rules as set out in Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU.

(5)

Horizontal principles as set out in Article 3 of the Treaty on the European Union (‘TEU’) and in Article 10 of the TFEU, including principles of subsidiarity and proportionality as set out in Article 5 of the TEU should be respected in the implementation of the Funds, taking into account the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. Member States should also respect the obligations of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and ensure accessibility in line with its article 9 and in accordance with the Union law harmonising accessibility requirements for products and services . In that context, the Funds should be implemented in a way which promotes deinstitutionalisation and community-based care . Member States and the Commission should aim at eliminating inequalities and at promoting equality between men and women and integrating the gender perspective, as well as at combating discrimination based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age or sexual orientation. The Funds should not support actions that contribute to any form of segregation or exclusion, or support infrastructure which is inaccessible to persons with a disability . The objectives of the Funds should be pursued in the framework of sustainable development and the Union's promotion of the aim of preserving, protecting and improving the quality of the environment as set out in Article 11 and Article191(1) of the TFEU, taking into account the polluter pays principle and taking into account the commitments agreed under the Paris Agreement . In order to protect the integrity of the internal market, operations benefitting undertakings shall comply with Union State aid rules as set out in Articles 107 and 108 of the TFEU. Poverty is one of the greatest challenges of the EU. The Funds should therefore contribute to the elimination of poverty. They should also contribute to fulfilling the commitment of the Union and its Member States to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

(9)

Reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the Union's commitments to implement the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Funds will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the EU budget expenditure supporting climate objectives.

(9)

Reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the Union's commitments to implement the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Funds will contribute to mainstreaming climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 30 % of the EU budget expenditure supporting climate objectives. Climate proofing mechanisms should be an integral part of programming and implementation.

(9a)

Given the impact of migration flows from third countries, cohesion policy should contribute to integration processes, in particular by providing infrastructure support to towns and cities and local and regional authorities on the front line, which are more involved in implementing integration policies.

(10)

Part of the budget of the Union allocated to the Funds should be implemented by the Commission under shared management with Member States within the meaning of Regulation (EU, Euratom) [number of the new Financial Regulation] of the European Parliament and of the Council (12) (the ‘Financial Regulation’). Therefore, when implementing the Funds under shared management, the Commission and the Member States should respect the principles referred to in the Financial Regulation, such as sound financial management, transparency and non-discrimination.

(10)

Part of the budget of the Union allocated to the Funds should be implemented by the Commission under shared management with Member States within the meaning of Regulation (EU, Euratom) [number of the new Financial Regulation] of the European Parliament and of the Council (12) (the ‘Financial Regulation’). Therefore, when implementing the Funds under shared management, the Commission and the Member States should respect the principles referred to in the Financial Regulation, such as sound financial management, transparency and non-discrimination. Member States should be responsible for preparing and implementing programmes. This should take place at the appropriate territorial level, in accordance with their institutional, legal and financial framework, and by the bodies designated by them for that purpose. Member States should refrain from adding rules that complicate the use of the funds for beneficiaries.

(11)

The principle of partnership is a key feature in the implementation of the Funds, building on the multi-level governance approach and ensuring the involvement of civil society and social partners. In order to provide continuity in the organisation of partnership, Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/2014 should continue to apply  (13).

(11)

The principle of partnership is a key feature in the implementation of the Funds, building on the multi-level governance approach and ensuring the involvement of regional, local, and other public authorities, civil society and social partners. In order to provide continuity in the organisation of partnership, the Commission should be empowered to amend and adapt Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 240/2014 (13).

(12)

At Union level, the European Semester of economic policy coordination is the framework to identify national reform priorities and monitor their implementation. Member States develop their own national multiannual investment strategies in support of these reform priorities. These strategies should be presented alongside the yearly National Reform Programmes as a way to outline and coordinate priority investment projects to be supported by national and Union funding. They should also serve to use Union funding in a coherent manner and to maximise the added value of the financial support to be received notably from the Funds, the European Investment Stabilisation Function and InvestEU.

(13)

Member States should determine how relevant country-specific recommendations adopted in accordance with Article 121(2) of the TFEU and relevant Council recommendations adopted in accordance with Article 148(4) of the TFEU (‘CSR’s) are taken into account in the preparation of programming documents. During the 2021–2027 programming period (‘programming period’), Member States should regularly present to the monitoring committee and to the Commission the progress in implementing the programmes in support of the CSRs. During a mid-term review, Member States should, among other elements, consider the need for programme modifications to accommodate relevant CSRs adopted or modified since the start of the programming period.

(13)

Member States should take into account relevant country-specific recommendations adopted in accordance with Article 121(2) of the TFEU and relevant Council recommendations adopted in accordance with Article 148(4) of the TFEU (‘CSR’s) in the preparation of programming documents, where they are consistent with the programme’s objectives. During the 2021–2027 programming period (‘programming period’), Member States should regularly present to the monitoring committee and to the Commission the progress in implementing the programmes in support of the CSRs , as well as of the European Pillar of Social Rights . During a mid-term review, Member States should, among other elements, consider the need for programme modifications to accommodate relevant CSRs adopted or modified since the start of the programming period.

(14)

Member States should take account of the contents of their draft National Energy and Climate Plan, to be developed under the Regulation on the Governance of the Energy Union (14) , and the outcome of the process resulting in Union recommendations regarding these plans, for their programmes, as well as for the financial needs allocated for low-carbon investments.

(14)

Member States should take account of the contents of their draft National Energy and Climate Plan, to be developed under the Regulation on the Governance of the Energy Union (14) , and the outcome of the process resulting in Union recommendations regarding these plans, for their programmes, including during the mid-term review, as well as for the financial needs allocated for low-carbon investments.

(15)

The Partnership Agreement, prepared by each Member State, should be a strategic document guiding the negotiations between the Commission and the Member State concerned on the design of programmes. In order to reduce the administrative burden, it should not be necessary to amend Partnership Agreements during the programming period. To facilitate the programming and avoid overlapping content in programming documents, Partnership Agreements can be included as part of a programme.

(15)

The Partnership Agreement, prepared by each Member State, should be a strategic document guiding the negotiations between the Commission and the Member State concerned on the design of programmes. In order to reduce the administrative burden, it should not be necessary to amend Partnership Agreements during the programming period. To facilitate the programming and avoid overlapping content in programming documents, it should be possible for Partnership Agreements to be included as part of a programme.

(16)

Each Member State should have the flexibility to contribute to InvestEU for the provision of budgetary guarantees for investments in that Member State.

(16)

Each Member State could have the flexibility to contribute to InvestEU for the provision of budgetary guarantees for investments in that Member State , under certain conditions specified in Article 10 of this Regulation .

(17)

To ensure the necessary prerequisites for the effective and efficient use of Union support granted by the Funds, a limited list of enabling conditions as well as a concise and exhaustive set of objective criteria for their assessment should be established. Each enabling condition should be linked to a specific objective and should be automatically applicable where the specific objective is selected for support. Where those conditions are not fulfilled, expenditure related to operations under the related specific objectives should not be included in payment applications.. In order to maintain a favourable investment framework, the continued fulfilment of the enabling conditions should be monitored regularly. It is also important to ensure that operations selected for support are implemented consistently with the strategies and planning documents in place underlying the fulfilled enabling conditions, thus ensuring that all co-financed operations are in line with the Union policy framework.

(17)

To ensure the necessary prerequisites for the inclusive, non-discriminatory, effective and efficient use of Union support granted by the Funds, a limited list of enabling conditions as well as a concise and exhaustive set of objective criteria for their assessment should be established. Each enabling condition should be linked to a specific objective and should be automatically applicable where the specific objective is selected for support. Where those conditions are not fulfilled, expenditure related to operations under the related specific objectives should not be included in payment applications.. In order to maintain a favourable investment framework, the continued fulfilment of the enabling conditions should be monitored regularly. It is also important to ensure that operations selected for support are implemented consistently with the strategies and planning documents in place underlying the fulfilled enabling conditions, thus ensuring that all co-financed operations are in line with the Union policy framework.

(18)

Member States should establish a performance framework for each programme covering all indicators, milestones and targets to monitor, report on and evaluate programme performance.

(18)

Member States should establish a performance framework for each programme covering all indicators, milestones and targets to monitor, report on and evaluate programme performance. This should allow project selection and evaluation to be result-driven.

(19)

The Member State should carry out a mid-term review of each programme supported by the ERDF, the ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund. That review should provide a fully-fledged adjustment of programmes based on programme performance, while also providing an opportunity to take account of new challenges and relevant CSRs issued in 2024. In parallel, in 2024 the Commission should, together with the technical adjustment for the year 2025, review all Member States’ total allocations under the Investment for jobs and growth goal of cohesion policy for the years 2025, 2026 and 2027, applying the allocation method set out in the relevant basic act. That review together with the outcome of the mid-term review should result in programme amendments modifying the financial allocations for the years 2025, 2026 and 2027.

(19)

The Member State should carry out a mid-term review of each programme supported by the ERDF, the ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund. That review should provide a fully-fledged adjustment of programmes based on programme performance, while also providing an opportunity to take account of new challenges and relevant CSRs issued in 2024 , as well as progress with the National Energy and Climate Plans and the European Pillar of Social Rights. Demographic challenges should also be taken into account . In parallel, in 2024 the Commission should, together with the technical adjustment for the year 2025, review all Member States’ total allocations under the Investment for jobs and growth goal of cohesion policy for the years 2025, 2026 and 2027, applying the allocation method set out in the relevant basic act. That review together with the outcome of the mid-term review should result in programme amendments modifying the financial allocations for the years 2025, 2026 and 2027.

(20)

Mechanisms to ensure a link between Union funding policies and the economic governance of the Union should be further refined, allowing the Commission to make a proposal to the Council to suspend all or part of the commitments for one or more of the programmes of the Member State concerned where that Member State fails to take effective action in the context of the economic governance process. In order to ensure uniform implementation and in view of the importance of the financial effects of measures being imposed, implementing powers should be conferred on the Council which should act on the basis of a Commission proposal. To facilitate the adoption of decisions which are required to ensure effective action in the context of the economic governance process, reversed qualified majority voting should be used.

(20 a)

Member States could make in duly justified cases a request for flexibility within the current framework of the Stability and Growth Pact for the public or equivalent structural expenditure, supported by the public administration by way of co-financing of investments activated as part of European Structural and Investment Funds (‘ESI Funds’). The Commission should carefully assess the respective request, when defining the fiscal adjustment under either the preventive or the corrective arm of the Stability and Growth Pact.

(22 a)

Major projects represent a substantial share of Union spending and are frequently of strategic importance with respect to the achievement of the Union strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. It is therefore justified that operations above certain thresholds continue to be subject to specific approval procedures under this Regulation. The threshold should be established in relation to total eligible cost after taking account of expected net revenues. To ensure clarity, it is appropriate to define the content of a major project application for such a purpose. The application should contain the necessary information to provide assurance that the financial contribution from the Funds does not result in a substantial loss of jobs in existing locations within the Union. The Member State should submit all required information and the Commission should appraise the major project to determine whether the requested financial contribution is justified.

(23)

To strengthen the integrated territorial development approach, investments in the form of territorial tools such as integrated territorial investments (‘ITI’), community-led local development (‘CLLD’) or any other territorial tool under policy objective ‘a Europe closer to citizens’ supporting initiatives designed by the Member State for investments programmed for the ERDF should be based on territorial and local development strategies. For the purposes of ITIs and territorial tools designed by Member States, minimum requirements should be set out for the content of territorial strategies. Those territorial strategies should be developed and endorsed under the responsibility of relevant authorities or bodies. To ensure the involvement of relevant authorities or bodies in implementing territorial strategies, those authorities or bodies should be responsible for the selection of operations to be supported, or involved in that selection.

(23)

To strengthen the integrated territorial development approach, investments in the form of territorial tools such as integrated territorial investments (‘ITI’), community-led local development (‘CLLD’ , known as ‘ LEADER ’ under the EAFRD), or any other territorial tool under policy objective ‘a Europe closer to citizens’ supporting initiatives designed by the Member State for investments programmed for the ERDF should be based on territorial and local development strategies . The same should apply to related initiatives such as the Smart Villages . For the purposes of ITIs and territorial tools designed by Member States, minimum requirements should be set out for the content of territorial strategies. Those territorial strategies should be developed and endorsed under the responsibility of relevant authorities or bodies. To ensure the involvement of relevant authorities or bodies in implementing territorial strategies, those authorities or bodies should be responsible for the selection of operations to be supported, or involved in that selection.

(24)

To better mobilise potential at the local level, it is necessary to strengthen and facilitate CLLD. It should take into account local needs and potential, as well as relevant socio-cultural characteristics, and should provide for structural changes, build community capacity and stimulate innovation. The close cooperation and integrated use of the Funds to deliver local development strategies should be strengthened. Local action groups, representing the interests of the community, should be, as an essential principle responsible for the design and implementation of CLLD strategies. In order to facilitate coordinated support from different Funds to CLLD strategies and to facilitate their implementation, the use of a ‘Lead Fund’ approach should be facilitated.

(24)

To better mobilise potential at the local level, it is necessary to strengthen and facilitate CLLD. It should take into account local needs and potential, as well as relevant socio-cultural characteristics, and should provide for structural changes, build community and administrative capacity and stimulate innovation. The close cooperation and integrated use of the Funds to deliver local development strategies should be strengthened. Local action groups, representing the interests of the community, should be, as an essential principle responsible for the design and implementation of CLLD strategies. In order to facilitate coordinated support from different Funds to CLLD strategies and to facilitate their implementation, the use of a ‘Lead Fund’ approach should be facilitated.

(25)

In order to reduce the administrative burden, technical assistance at the initiative of the Member State should be implemented through a flat rate based on progress in programme implementation. That technical assistance may be complemented with targeted administrative capacity building measures using reimbursement methods that are not linked to costs. Actions and deliverables as well as corresponding Union payments can be agreed in a roadmap and can lead to payments for results on the ground.

(25)

In order to reduce the administrative burden, technical assistance at the initiative of the Member State should be implemented through a flat rate based on progress in programme implementation. That technical assistance may be complemented with targeted administrative capacity building measures , such as the evaluation of the skills set of human resources,  using reimbursement methods that are not linked to costs. Actions and deliverables as well as corresponding Union payments can be agreed in a roadmap and can lead to payments for results on the ground.

(27)

In order to examine the performance of the programmes, the Member State should set up monitoring committees. For the ERDF, the ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund, annual implementation reports should be replaced by an annual structured policy dialogue based on the latest information and data on programme implementation made available by the Member State.

(27)

In order to examine the performance of the programmes, the Member State should set up monitoring committees , consisting also of representatives of civil society and social partners . For the ERDF, the ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund, annual implementation reports should be replaced by an annual structured policy dialogue based on the latest information and data on programme implementation made available by the Member State.

(28)

Pursuant to paragraphs 22 and 23 of the Inter-institutional agreement for Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016 (16), there is a need to evaluate the Funds on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements, while avoiding overregulation and administrative burden, in particular on Member States. These requirements, where appropriate, can include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Funds on the ground.

(28)

Pursuant to paragraphs 22 and 23 of the Inter-institutional agreement for Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016 (16), there is a need to evaluate the Funds on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements, while avoiding overregulation and administrative burden, in particular on Member States. These requirements, where appropriate, can include measurable indicators, as a basis for evaluating the effects of the Funds on the ground. Indicators should be developed in a gender sensitive manner when possible.

(29)

To ensure availability of comprehensive up-to-date information on programme implementation, more frequent electronic reporting on quantitative data should be required.

(29)

To ensure availability of comprehensive up-to-date information on programme implementation, effective and timely electronic reporting on quantitative data should be required.

(30)

In order to support the preparation of related programmes and activities of the next programming period, the Commission should carry out a mid-term assessment of the Funds. At the end of the programming period, the Commission should carry out retrospective evaluations of the Funds, which should focus on the impact of the Funds.

(30)

In order to support the preparation of related programmes and activities of the next programming period, the Commission should carry out a mid-term assessment of the Funds. At the end of the programming period, the Commission should carry out retrospective evaluations of the Funds, which should focus on the impact of the Funds. The results of these evaluations should be made public.

(34)

As regards grants provided to beneficiaries, Member States should increasingly make use of simplified cost options. The threshold linked to the obligatory use of simplified cost options should be linked to the total costs of the operation in order to ensure the same treatment of all operations below the threshold, regardless of whether the support is public or private.

(34)

As regards grants provided to beneficiaries, Member States should increasingly make use of simplified cost options. The threshold linked to the obligatory use of simplified cost options should be linked to the total costs of the operation in order to ensure the same treatment of all operations below the threshold, regardless of whether the support is public or private. Where a Member State intends to propose the use of a simplified cost option, it could consult the monitoring committee.

(36)

In order to optimise the uptake of co-financed environmental investments, synergies should be ensured with the LIFE programme for Environmental and Climate Action, in particular through LIFE strategic integrated projects and strategic nature projects.

(36)

In order to optimise the uptake of co-financed environmental investments, synergies should be ensured with the LIFE programme for Environmental and Climate Action, in particular through LIFE strategic integrated projects and strategic nature projects , as well as with projects funded under Horizon Europe and other Union programmes .

(38)

To ensure the effectiveness, fairness and sustainable impact of the Funds, there should be provisions guaranteeing that investments in infrastructure or productive investment are long-lasting and prevent the Funds from being used to undue advantage. Managing authorities should pay particular attention not to support relocation when selecting operations and to treat sums unduly paid to operations not complying with the requirement of durability as irregularities.

(38)

To ensure the inclusiveness, effectiveness, fairness and sustainable impact of the Funds, there should be provisions guaranteeing that investments in infrastructure or productive investment are non-discriminatory and long-lasting and prevent the Funds from being used to undue advantage. Managing authorities should pay particular attention not to support relocation when selecting operations and to treat sums unduly paid to operations not complying with the requirement of durability as irregularities.

(40)

In order to optimise the added value from investments funded wholly or in part through the budget of the Union, synergies should be sought in particular between the Funds and directly managed instruments, including the Reform Delivery Tool. Those synergies should be achieved through key mechanisms, namely the recognition of flat rates for eligible costs from Horizon Europe for a similar operation and the possibility of combining funding from different Union instruments in the same operation as long as double financing is avoided. This Regulation should therefore set out rules for complementary financing from the Funds.

(40)

In order to optimise the added value from investments funded wholly or in part through the budget of the Union, synergies should be sought in particular between the Funds and directly managed instruments, including the Reform Delivery Tool . This policy coordination should promote easy-to-use mechanisms and multi-level governance . Those synergies should be achieved through key mechanisms, namely the recognition of flat rates for eligible costs from Horizon Europe for a similar operation and the possibility of combining funding from different Union instruments in the same operation as long as double financing is avoided. This Regulation should therefore set out rules for complementary financing from the Funds.

(42a)

Managing authorities should have the possibility to implement financial instruments through a direct award of a contract to the EIB Group, national promotional banks and to international financial institutions (IFIs).

(44)

In full respect of the applicable State aid and public procurement rules already clarified during the 2014-2020 programming period, the managing authorities should have the possibility to decide on the most appropriate implementation options for financial instruments in order to address the specific needs of target regions.

(44)

In full respect of the applicable State aid and public procurement rules already clarified during the 2014-2020 programming period, the managing authorities should have the possibility to decide on the most appropriate implementation options for financial instruments in order to address the specific needs of target regions. In this framework, the Commission should, in cooperation with the European Court of Auditors, give guidance to auditors, managing authorities and beneficiaries for assessing compliance with state aid and developing state aid schemes.

(45a)

In order to increase accountability and transparency, the Commission should provide for a complaints-handling system accessible to all citizens and stakeholders at all stages of preparation and implementation of programmes including monitoring and evaluation.

(46)

In order to hasten the start of programme implementation, the roll-over of implementation arrangements from the previous programming period should be facilitated. The use of the computerised system already established for the previous programming period, adapted as required, should be maintained, unless a new technology is necessary.

(46)

In order to hasten the start of programme implementation, the roll-over of implementation arrangements , including administrative and IT systems, from the previous programming period should be facilitated where possible . The use of the computerised system already established for the previous programming period, adapted as required, should be maintained, unless a new technology is necessary.

(48 a)

To support the effective use of the Funds, the EIB support should be available to all Member States at their request. This could cover capacity building, support for project identification, preparation and implementation, as well as advice on financial instruments and investment platforms.

(50)

To ensure an appropriate balance between the effective and efficient implementation of the Funds and the related administrative costs and burdens, the frequency, scope and coverage of management verifications should be based on a risk assessment that takes account of factors such as the type of operations implemented, the beneficiaries as well as the level of risk identified by previous management verifications and audits.

(50)

To ensure an appropriate balance between the effective and efficient implementation of the Funds and the related administrative costs and burdens, the frequency, scope and coverage of management verifications should be based on a risk assessment that takes account of factors such as the type of operations implemented, the complexity and number of operations, the beneficiaries as well as the level of risk identified by previous management verifications and audits. Management and control measures for the Funds should be proportionate to the level of risk to the Union budget.

(58)

Member States should also prevent, detect and deal effectively with any irregularities including fraud committed by beneficiaries. Moreover, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 (18), and Regulations (Euratom, EC) No 2988/95 (19) and No 2185/96 (20) the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 (21), the European Public Prosecutor's Office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 (22) on the fight against fraud to the Union's financial interests by means of criminal law. Member States should take the necessary measures so that any person or entity receiving Union funds fully cooperates in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, grants the necessary rights and access to the Commission, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) and the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and ensures that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights. Member States should report to the Commission on detected irregularities including fraud, and on their follow-up as well as on the follow-up of OLAF investigations.

(58)

Member States should also prevent, detect and deal effectively with any irregularities including fraud committed by beneficiaries. Moreover, in accordance with Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 (18), and Regulations (Euratom, EC) No 2988/95 (19) and No 2185/96 (20) the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) may carry out administrative investigations, including on-the-spot checks and inspections, with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud, corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the Union. In accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 (21), the European Public Prosecutor's Office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the Union as provided for in Directive (EU) 2017/1371 (22) on the fight against fraud to the Union's financial interests by means of criminal law. Member States should take the necessary measures so that any person or entity receiving Union funds fully cooperates in the protection of the Union’s financial interests, grants the necessary rights and access to the Commission, the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) and the European Court of Auditors (ECA) and ensures that any third parties involved in the implementation of Union funds grant equivalent rights. Member States should provide a detailed report to the Commission on detected irregularities including fraud, and on their follow-up as well as on the follow-up of OLAF investigations. Member States that do not participate in the enhanced cooperation with the EPPO should report to the Commission on decisions taken by national prosecution authorities in relation to cases of irregularities affecting the Union budget.

(61)

Objective criteria should be established for designating eligible regions and areas for support from the Funds. To this end, the identification of the regions and areas at Union level should be based on the common system of classification of the regions established by Regulation (EC) No 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and the Council (23), as amended by Commission Regulation (EU) No 868/2014  (24).

(61)

Objective criteria should be established for designating eligible regions and areas for support from the Funds. To this end, the identification of the regions and areas at Union level should be based on the common system of classification of the regions established by Regulation (EC) No 1059/2003 of the European Parliament and the Council (23), as most recently amended by Commission Regulation (EU) 2016/2066  (24).

(62)

In order to set out an appropriate financial framework for the ERDF, the ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund, the Commission should set out the annual breakdown of available allocations per Member State under the Investment for jobs and growth goal together with the list of eligible regions, as well as the allocations for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg). Taking into account that the national allocations of Member States should be established on the basis of the statistical data and forecasts available in 2018 and given the forecasting uncertainties, the Commission should review the total allocations of all Member States in 2024 on the basis of the most recent statistics available at the time and, where there is a cumulative divergence of more than +/- 5 %, it should adjust those allocations for the years 2025 to 2027 in order for the outcomes of the mid-term review and the technical adjustment exercise to be reflected in programme amendments at the same time.

(62)

In order to set out an appropriate financial framework for the ERDF, the ESF+ , the EMFF and the Cohesion Fund, the Commission should set out the annual breakdown of available allocations per Member State under the Investment for jobs and growth goal together with the list of eligible regions, as well as the allocations for the European territorial cooperation goal (Interreg). Taking into account that the national allocations of Member States should be established on the basis of the statistical data and forecasts available in 2018 and given the forecasting uncertainties, the Commission should review the total allocations of all Member States in 2024 on the basis of the most recent statistics available at the time and, where there is a cumulative divergence of more than +/- 5 %, it should adjust those allocations for the years 2025 to 2027 in order for the outcomes of the mid-term review and the technical adjustment exercise to be reflected in programme amendments at the same time.

(63)

Trans-European transport networks projects in accordance with Regulation (EU) No [new CEF Regulation] (25) will continue to be financed from the Cohesion Fund via both shared management and the direct implementation mode under the Connecting Europe Facility (‘CEF’). Building on the successful approach of the 2014-2020 programming period, EUR 10 000 000 000 of the Cohesion Fund should be transferred to the CEF for this purpose.

(63)

Trans-European transport networks projects in accordance with Regulation (EU) No [new CEF Regulation] (25) will continue to be financed from the Cohesion Fund via both shared management and the direct implementation mode under the Connecting Europe Facility (‘CEF’). Building on the successful approach of the 2014-2020 programming period, EUR 4 000 000 000 of the Cohesion Fund should be transferred to the CEF for this purpose.

(64)

A certain amount of the resources from ERDF, the ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund should be allocated to the European Urban Initiative which should be implemented through direct or indirect management by the Commission.

(64)

A certain amount of the resources from ERDF, the ESF+ and the Cohesion Fund should be allocated to the European Urban Initiative which should be implemented through direct or indirect management by the Commission. Further reflection should be carried out in future on the specific support which is provided for disadvantaged regions and communities.

(65a)

With a view to tackling the challenges faced by middle income regions, as described in the 7th cohesion report (low  (1a) growth compared to more developed regions but also compared to less developed regions, this issue being faced especially by regions with a GDP per capita between 90 % and 100 % of the average GDP of the EU-27), ‘transition regions’ should receive adequate support and be defined as regions whose GDP per capita is between 75 % and 100 % of the average GDP of the EU-27.

(66 a)

Within the context of the UK's withdrawal from the Union, several regions and Member States will be more exposed to the consequences of this withdrawal than the others, due to their geography, nature and / or the extent of their trading links. It is therefore important to identify practical solutions for support also within the framework of cohesion policy to address the challenges for the concerned regions and Member States once the UK's withdrawal has taken place. Furthermore, a continuous cooperation, involving exchanges of information and good practices at the level of the most impacted local and regional authorities and Member States will need to be established.

(67)

It is necessary to establish the maximum rates of co-financing in the area of cohesion policy by category of region in order to ensure that the principle of co-financing is respected through an appropriate level of public or private national support. Those rates should reflect the level of economic development of regions in terms of GDP per capita in relation to the EU-27 average.

(67)

It is necessary to establish the maximum rates of co-financing in the area of cohesion policy by category of region in order to ensure that the principle of co-financing is respected through an appropriate level of public or private national support. Those rates should reflect the level of economic development of regions in terms of GDP per capita in relation to the EU-27 average , while safeguarding no less favourable treatment due to shifts in their categorisation .

(69)

In addition the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the TFEU should be delegated to the Commission in respect of the establishment of the criteria for determining the cases of irregularities to be reported, the definition of unit costs, lump sums, flat rates and financing not linked to costs applicable to all Member States as well as the establishment of standardised off-the-shelf sampling methodologies.

(69)

In addition the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the TFEU should be delegated to the Commission in respect of the amendment of the European code of conduct on partnership in order to adapt the code to this Regulation, the establishment of the criteria for determining the cases of irregularities to be reported, the definition of unit costs, lump sums, flat rates and financing not linked to costs applicable to all Member States as well as the establishment of standardised off-the-shelf sampling methodologies.

(70)

It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council receive all documents at the same time as Member States' experts, and their experts systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.

(70)

It is of particular importance that the Commission carry out appropriate , transparent consultations with all interested parties during its preparatory work, including at expert level, and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the Interinstitutional Agreement on Better Law-Making of 13 April 2016. In particular, to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts, the European Parliament and the Council receive all documents at the same time as Member States' experts, and their experts systematically have access to meetings of Commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.

(73)

The objectives of this Regulation, namely to strengthen economic, social and territorial cohesion and to lay down common financial rules for part of the budget of the Union implemented under shared management, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States by reason on the one hand due to the extent of the disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and the backwardness of the least favoured regions, as well as the limit on the financial resources of the Member States and regions and on the other hand due to the need for a coherent implementation framework covering several Union funds under shared management. Since those objectives can therefore rather be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the TEU. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.

(73)

The objectives of this Regulation, namely to strengthen economic, social and territorial cohesion and to lay down common financial rules for part of the budget of the Union implemented under shared management, cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States by reason on the one hand due to the extent of the disparities between the levels of development of the various regions and the specific challenges faced by the least favoured regions, as well as the limit on the financial resources of the Member States and regions and on the other hand due to the need for a coherent implementation framework covering several Union funds under shared management. Since those objectives can therefore rather be better achieved at Union level, the Union may adopt measures, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the TEU. In accordance with the principle of proportionality, as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives.

(a)

financial rules for the European Regional Development Fund (‘ERDF’), the European Social Fund Plus (‘ESF+’), the Cohesion Fund,, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (‘EMFF’), the Asylum and Migration Fund (‘AMIF’), the Internal Security Fund (‘ISF’) and the Border Management and Visa Instrument (‘BMVI’) (‘the Funds’);

(a)

financial rules for the European Regional Development Fund (‘ERDF’), the European Social Fund Plus (‘ESF+’), the Cohesion Fund, the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (‘EAFRD’) , the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (‘EMFF’), the Asylum and Migration Fund (‘AMIF’), the Internal Security Fund (‘ISF’) and the Border Management and Visa Instrument (‘BMVI’) (‘the Funds’);

(b)

common provisions applicable to the ERDF, the ESF+, the Cohesion Fund and the EMFF.

(b)

common provisions applicable to the ERDF, the ESF+, the Cohesion Fund and the EMFF , and to the EAFRD as prescribed in paragraph 1a of this Article .

(1)

‘relevant country specific recommendations’ mean Council recommendations adopted in accordance with Article 121(2) and Article 148(4) of the TFEU relating to structural challenges which it is appropriate to address through multiannual investments that fall within the scope of the Funds as set out in Fund-specific Regulations, and relevant recommendations adopted in accordance with Article [XX] of Regulation (EU) [number of the new Energy Union Governance Regulation] of the European Parliament and of the Council;

(1)

‘relevant country specific recommendations’ mean Council recommendations adopted in accordance with Articles 121(2) and (4) and Article 148(4) of the TFEU relating to structural challenges which it is appropriate to address through multiannual investments that fall within the scope of the Funds as set out in Fund-specific Regulations, and relevant recommendations adopted in accordance with Article [XX] of Regulation (EU) [number of the new Energy Union Governance Regulation] of the European Parliament and of the Council;

(1 a)

(4 a)

(c)

in the context of State aid schemes, the undertaking which receives the aid;

(c)

in the context of State aid schemes, the body or the undertaking , as appropriate, which receives the aid , except where the aid per undertaking is less than EUR 200 000 , in which case the Member State concerned may decide that the beneficiary is the body granting the aid, without prejudice to Commission Regulations (EU) No 1407/2013  (1a) , (EU) No 1408/2013  (1b) and (EU) No 717/2014  (1c);

(9)

‘small project fund’ means an operation in an Interreg programme aimed at the selection and implementation of projects of limited financial volume;

(9)

‘small project fund’ means an operation in an Interreg programme aimed at the selection and implementation of projects, including people-to-people projects of limited financial volume;

(21)

‘specific fund’ means a fund , set-up by a managing authority or a holding fund , to provide financial products to final recipients;

(21)

‘specific fund’ means a fund set up by a managing authority or a holding fund through which they provide financial products to final recipients;

(36a)

(37)

‘climate proofing’ means a process to ensure that infrastructure is resilient to the adverse impacts of the climate in accordance with national rules and guidance, where available, or internationally recognised standards.

(37)

‘climate proofing’ means a process to ensure that infrastructure is resilient to the adverse impacts of the climate in accordance with internationally recognised standards or national rules and guidance, where available, that the energy efficiency first principle is respected and that specific emission reduction and decarbonisation pathways are chosen;

(37a)

(a)

a smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation;

(a)

a more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises ;

(b)

a greener, low-carbon Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate adaptation and risk prevention and management;

(b)

a greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation and risk prevention and management;

(c)

a more connected Europe by enhancing mobility and regional ICT connectivity;

(c)

a more connected Europe by enhancing mobility , including smart and sustainable mobility, and regional ICT connectivity;

(d)

a more social Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights;

(d)

a more social and inclusive Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights;

(e)

a Europe closer to citizens by fostering the sustainable and integrated development of urban, rural and coastal areas and local initiatives.

(e)

a Europe closer to citizens by fostering the sustainable and integrated development of all regions, areas and local initiatives.

(a)

urban and other public authorities;

(a)

regional, local, urban and other public authorities;

(c)

relevant bodies representing civil society, environmental partners, and bodies responsible for promoting social inclusion, fundamental rights, rights of persons with disabilities, gender equality and non-discrimination.

(c)

relevant bodies representing civil society, such as environmental partners , non-governmental organisations , and bodies responsible for promoting social inclusion, fundamental rights, rights of persons with disabilities, gender equality and non-discrimination.

(c a)

research institutions and universities, where appropriate.

(a)

the selected policy objectives indicating by which of the Funds and programmes they will be pursued and a justification thereto, and where relevant, a justification for using the delivery mode of the InvestEU, taking into account relevant country-specific recommendations;

(a)

the selected policy objectives indicating by which of the Funds and programmes they will be pursued and a justification thereto, taking into account and listing relevant country-specific recommendations , as well as regional challenges ;

(i)

a summary of the policy choices and the main results expected for each of the Funds , including where relevant, through the use of InvestEU ;

(i)

a summary of the policy choices and the main results expected for each of the Funds;

(ii)

coordination, demarcation and complementarities between the Funds and, where appropriate, coordination between national and regional programmes;

(ii)

coordination, demarcation and complementarities between the Funds and, where appropriate, coordination between national and regional programmes , in particular with regard to CAP Strategic Plans referred to in Regulation (EU) […] (the ‘CAP Strategic Plans Regulation’) ;

(iii)

complementarities between the Funds and other Union instruments, including LIFE strategic integrated projects and strategic nature projects;

(iii)

complementarities and synergies between the Funds and other Union instruments, including LIFE strategic integrated projects and strategic nature projects , and, where appropriate, projects funded under Horizon Europe ;

(iii a)

delivery on targets, policies and measures under the National Energy and Climate Plans;

(c)

the preliminary financial allocation from each of the Funds by policy objective at national level, respecting Fund-specific rules on thematic concentration;

(c)

the preliminary financial allocation from each of the Funds by policy objective at national and where appropriate at regional level, respecting Fund-specific rules on thematic concentration;

(d)

where relevant, the breakdown of financial resources by category of regions drawn up in accordance with Article 102(2) and the amounts of allocations proposed to be transferred between categories of regions pursuant to Article 105;

(d)

the breakdown of financial resources by category of regions drawn up in accordance with Article 102(2) and the amounts of allocations proposed to be transferred between categories of regions pursuant to Article 105;

(e)

the amounts to be contributed to InvestEU by Fund and by category of regions;

(g)

a summary of the actions which the Member State concerned shall take to reinforce its administrative capacity of the implementation of the Funds.

(g)

a summary of the actions which the Member State concerned shall take to reinforce its administrative capacity of the implementation of the Funds and its management and control system .

(ga)

where appropriate, an integrated approach to address the demographic challenges and/ or specific needs of regions and areas;

(g b)

a communication and visibility strategy.

(a)

the challenges identified in relevant country-specific recommendations adopted in 2024;

(a)

new challenges identified in relevant country-specific recommendations adopted in 2024 and the targets identified in the implementation of the integrated national climate and energy plans, if relevant ;

(b)

the socio-economic situation of the Member State or region concerned;

(b)

the socio-economic situation of the Member State or region concerned , including the state of implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights and territorial needs with a view to reducing disparities, as well as economic and social inequalities ;

(d a)

any major negative financial, economic or social developments which require an adjustment of the programmes, including as a consequence of symmetric or asymmetric shocks in the Member States and their regions.

(a)

the allocations of the financial resources by priority including the amounts for the years 2026 and 2027;

(a)

the revised initial allocations of the financial resources by priority including the amounts for the years 2026 and 2027;

(b a)

the amounts to be contributed to InvestEU per Fund and per category of region, where appropriate;

(i)

economic, social and territorial disparities, except for programmes supported by the EMFF;

(i)

economic, social and territorial disparities as well as inequalities , except for programmes supported by the EMFF;

(ii)

market failures, investment needs and complementarity with other forms of support;

(ii)

market failures, investment needs and complementarity and synergies with other forms of support;

(iii)

challenges identified in relevant country-specific recommendations and other relevant Union recommendations addressed to the Member State ;

(iii)

challenges identified in the relevant country-specific recommendations;

(iv)

challenges in administrative capacity and governance;

(iv)

challenges in administrative capacity and governance and simplification measures ;

(iv a)

an integrated approach to address demographic challenges, where relevant;

(vi a)

challenges and related objectives identified within National Energy and Climate Plans and in the European Pillar of Social Rights;

(vii)

for programmes supported by the AMIF, the ISF and the BMVI, progress in implementing the relevant Union acquis and action plans;

(vii)

for programmes supported by the AMIF, the ISF and the BMVI, progress in implementing the relevant Union acquis and action plans , as well as identified shortcomings ;

(i)

the related types of actions, including a list of planned operations of strategic importance, and their expected contribution to those specific objectives and to macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, where appropriate;

(i)

the related types of actions, including an indicative list and timetable of planned operations of strategic importance, and their expected contribution to those specific objectives and to macro-regional strategies and sea-basin strategies, where appropriate;

(iii a)

actions safeguarding equality, inclusion and non-discrimination;

(v)

the interregional and transnational actions with beneficiaries located in at least one other Member State;

(v)

the interregional , cross-border and transnational actions with beneficiaries located in at least one other Member State;

(va)

sustainability of investments;

(vii a)

a description of how complementarities and synergies with other Funds and instruments are to be pursued;

(i)

the envisaged approach to communication and visibility for the programme through defining its objectives, target audiences, communication channels, social media outreach, planned budget and relevant indicators for monitoring and evaluation;

(i)

the envisaged approach to communication and visibility for the programme through defining its objectives, target audiences, communication channels, where appropriate social media outreach, as well as planned budget and relevant indicators for monitoring and evaluation;

(j)

the managing authority, the audit authority and the body which receives payments from the Commission.

(j)

the managing authority, the audit authority , the body responsible for the accounting function under Article 70,  and the body which receives payments from the Commission.

(a)

details concerning the body to be responsible for implementation of the major project, and its capacity;

(b)

a description of the investment and its location;

(c)

the total cost and total eligible cost;

(d)

feasibility studies carried out, including the options analysis, and the results;

(e)

a cost-benefit analysis, including an economic and a financial analysis, and a risk assessment;

(f)

an analysis of the environmental impact, taking into account climate change adaptation and mitigation needs, and disaster resilience;

(g)

an explanation as to how the major project is consistent with the relevant priorities of the programme or programmes concerned, and its expected contribution to achieving the specific objectives of those priorities and the expected contribution to socio-economic development;

(h)

the financing plan showing the total planned financial resources and the planned support from the Funds, the EIB, and all other sources of financing, together with physical and financial indicators for monitoring progress, taking account of the identified risks;

(i)

the timetable for implementing the major project and, where the implementation period is expected to be longer than the programming period, the phases for which support from the Funds is requested during the programming period.

(c)

another territorial tool supporting initiatives designed by the Member State for investments programmed for the ERDF under the policy objective referred in Article 4(1)(e).

(c)

another territorial tool supporting initiatives designed by the Member State for investments programmed under the policy objective referred in Article 4(1)(e).

(a)

the geographical area covered by the strategy;

(a)

the geographical area covered by the strategy including economic, social and environmental interlinkages ;

(d)

a description of the involvement of partners in accordance with Article 6 in the preparation and in the implementation of the strategy.

(d)

a description of the involvement of partners under Article 6 in the preparation and in the implementation of the strategy.

(b)

led by local action groups composed of representatives of public and private local socio-economic interests, in which no single interest group controls the decision-making;

(b)

led by local action groups composed of representatives of public and private local socio-economic interests, in which no single interest group , including the public sector,  controls the decision-making;

(d)

supportive of networking, innovative features in the local context and, where appropriate, cooperation with other territorial actors.

(d)

supportive of networking , bottom-up approaches, accessibility , innovative features in the local context and, where appropriate, cooperation with other territorial actors.

(d)

the objectives of that strategy, including measurable targets for results, and related planned actions;

(d)

the objectives of that strategy, including measurable targets for results, and related planned actions in response to local needs as identified by the local community ;

(f)

a financial plan, including the planned allocation from each Fund and programme concerned.

(f)

a financial plan, including the planned allocation from each Fund , including where appropriate the EAFRD, and each programme concerned.

(a)

building the capacity of local actors to develop and implement operations;

(a)

building the administrative capacity of local actors to develop and implement operations;

(a)

capacity building and preparatory actions supporting the design and future implementation of the strategies;

(a)

administrative capacity building and preparatory actions supporting the design and future implementation of the strategies;

(ba)

animation of the community-led local development strategy in order to facilitate exchange between stakeholders, to provide them with information and to support potential beneficiaries in their preparation of applications;