” “Over 300 billion euros to "bridge the gap" between old and new EU member states. This is the set purpose of the EU structural funds to which the EU Parliament is called to give the go-ahead during today’s session in Strasbourg. Basically, the Assembly must confirm the agreement made with the Council about the funds for 2007-2013. Such decision would allow them, from January 1st 2007, to unfreeze 308 billion euros "which had been earmarked to expedite the adjustment of the underdeveloped member states and regions, to support social cohesion and to promote territorial cooperation". Before assigning the funds, it is up to Barroso’s commission to negotiate each national operating program. These funds are: regional development fund (EDF), European social fund (ESF) and cohesion fund. The EDF "is involved in the funding of productive investments that help create and maintain the established jobs"; the ESF "helps accomplish the EU priorities about the strengthening of economic and social cohesion by improving employment opportunities". Finally, the Cohesion Fund adds up to the other EU instruments for regional development regarding the environment and transport infrastructures "to promote economic and social cohesion and solidarity among the member states". ” “
