VNG International is managing a project to support grant beneficiaries  in the countries bordering the European Union. This project is the "Cooperation in Urban Development and Dialogue" (CIUDAD).  Cornerstone of the entire CIUDAD programme is the partnership approach of decentralised cooperation, providing an excellent opportunity to building capacity for the modernisation and strengthening of local and regional government in the European Neighbourhood Policy countries. Themes targeted  by the  grant projects are environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, sustainable economic development, reducing social disparities, good governance and sustainable urban development.

In the next four years approximately 20-25 grant beneficiaries are supported in the implementation of their grant projects through support and advice activities. Further, grant projects are linked up with existing networks, programmes and initiatives to promote mutual understanding, dialogue and cooperation between local actors in the EU and in the European Neighbourhood Policy partners countries.  Partners of VNG International’s consortium are GTZ (Germany), JCP (Italy) and IHS (Netherlands).

More information about the ‘European Neighbourhood Policy Instrument’: http://www.enpi-info.eu/.