1. Strengthening bilateral relations: - Programme development Andreas Aabel Bilateral officer FMO aaa@efta.int +32498177036 Operational definition Cooperation, joint results, and increased mutual knowledge and understanding between donor and beneficiary states as a function of the EEA and Norway Grants.

2. Ambitions for partnership Project implemented Programme implemented Objective Strengthened bilateral relations In cooperation with Donor Programme Partner (DPP) In cooperation with donor project partner (dpp) Without dppWithout DPP In cooperation with pre-defined donor project partner Strengthening bilateral relations is applicable to all programmes: Donor Programme Partners [DPP] in most programmes in Romania Bilateral funding – available in all programmes Bilateral project partners – encouraged in all programmes Bilateral indicators – encouraged in all programmes The Donor States are active, resourceful and reliable partners in Europe. Through the grants they contribute to reaching common European objectives.

3. How to start bilateral cooperation between PO and DPP? Involvement of DPPs in programming phase PODPP Cooperation committee - Membership ? - Where to meet ? - How often ? - How to set agenda ? - Internal deadlines ? - System for minutes ? Agree on a plan for the coming 8 months PROGRAMME PROPOSAL

4. Key bilateral elements of programme proposal Programme proposal (description in Programme Operators Manual) Role of DPP Use of bilateral fund Bilateral ambitions

5. Key bilateral elements of programme proposal Describe the role of DPP Description of cooperation committee (selection committee if applicable) Prior cooperation, relevance to the programme (justification) Scale and content of DPP involvement (DPP also pre-defined project partner ?)

6. Key bilateral elements of programme proposal Other elements (technical aspects) Main elements (activities) Bilateral fund at programme level (1,5%) Management of fund (efficiency, good governance) a) Seed money (search for partners, develop projects) Grant rate? (can be 100%) Maximum grant amount? b) Networking and exchange of experience (during implementation of projects) Who can apply? (can be both donor and beneficiary state entities)

7. Key bilateral elements of programme proposal Example of indicators Indicators Bilateral ambition Strategy (outcome/output) Quantitative indicators Extent of cooperation Shared results Knowledge and mutual understanding Wider effects Number of donor partnership projects Number of new technologies/new practices adopted in DS/BS Qualitative indicators Data can be gathered through surveys, interviews, focus group discussion, etc.

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