The Netherlands is to give financial support for the uprisings across the Arab world, Foreign Minister Uri Rosenthal and Deputy Foreign Minister Ben Knapen have told parliament.

The aim of the aid is to “support a lasting transition in the Arab region” and so help consolidate changes, the ministers write. An initial sum of 7.5 million euros will be made available next year. After that, the sum will increase annually to 15 million in 2015.

Initially the aid will go to Tunisia and Egypt, and later also to Morocco and Jordan. The funds will be channelled to regional authorities, including local companies. The Hague also hopes to provide Arab countries with more technical assistance.

The Dutch aid will focus on fostering democracy, improving the judiciary and boosting economic growth. It is important that the region sees swift economic and political reforms, the ministers note.

Hopefully, they add, these countries’ largely young populations will use the aid to turn a vision of a better future into concrete results.

(cl)

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