Swiss Govt Grants BGN 11 M to Bulgarian NGOs

The Swiss government is granting Bulgaria a total of of CHF 76 M, or BGN 11 M, under two funds in the NGO sector.Photo by borsi.blog.bg

The Swiss government is granting Bulgaria a total of of CHF 76 M, or BGN 11 M, under two funds aimed at strengthening civil society and boosting cooperation between NGOs of the two countries.

Swiss Ambassador to Bulgaria Regina Escher made clear Friday that the first fund was aimed at Bulgarian non-governmental organizations, while the second encouraged partnership between Bulgarian and Swiss organizations.

"We really insist on quality. The program must match Swiss quality standards. We want 100% of our CHF 76 M to be used," the Swiss envoy said.

"All NGOs which are doing something good for society and the development of democracy in Bulgaria can apply. Through these funds we are also targeting social services and environmental protection, but, generally speaking, all spheres must be improved for more democracy" Escher pointed out in an interview for the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR).

Scores of NGO representatives gathered in Sofia for the launch of the Swiss program established to support projects promoting civil society.

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