The overall objective of the project was to support and develop the already established partnership in the region in managing the preparation process for the Economic and Social Cohesion (ESC) programme and its activities. The project aimed at harnessing the region’s public, private and NGO sector parties to work towards maximising the benefits available from the EU and other financial institutions for the region’s future economic growth. This means better performance in managing the process of identification, preparation, appraisal and implementation of projects in a wide regional partnership. Inter-municipal activities and strong participation from the private sector is highlighted. As a result there was a model for sustainable co-operative measures, an Action Plan for inter-municipal activities and a Regional Partnership strategy incorporating key actors.
The project was the first component of the Phare 2000 ESC programme in the Latgale region. The other components were Business Related Infrastructure, Business Advisory and Human Resource Development. One aim of the Regional Partnership Project was to support the delivery of the above-mentioned ESC components. Additionally, the project was carried out within the framework of the National Development Plan.
The following activities were carried out:
1. Identification of a realistic number of specific priorities and projects for the regional development of Latgale;
2. Building of capacity for planning of infrastructure projects;
3. Building of capacity for Human Resource Development and development of implementation tools through training and education;
4. Building capacity and development of implementation tools in financial issues.