Division 11

Concerning the bilateral programmes, the priorities are to be decided taking into account the stage of development of each country's economy and society as well as the capacity of its institutions. In the light of the conclusion or implementation of association agreements, the indicative programmes are to be decided taking into account the needs of the Mediterranean partners, their capacity to absorb funds and the progress made in structural reform process, as well as the priorities identified with them, in particular those emerging from the conclusions of the economic dialogue and from the association agreements themselves. A considerable effort will be made to promote programmes which could contribute to the development of democracy and respect for human rights. Among the aspects and fields of economic and social development suitable for financial support, the following are general indications of the main thrust of bilateral indicative programmes between the Community and individual Mediterranean partners, during the first years of the MEDA programme.