During the Government meeting, a Decision was approved that modifies Government Decision No. 347/2016 regarding the establishment of the general framework for the implementation of operations co-financed from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund through the Operational Program for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries 2014-2020, with subsequent amendments and supplements.

In accordance with the provisions of the normative act, beneficiaries of the Operational Program for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (POPAM) have the possibility to extend the maximum project implementation duration until December 31, 2023, without the requirement of maintaining a specific percentage representing the non-refundable financial assistance authorized for payment by the relevant Managing Authority for the respective operation.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADR), through the Directorate-General for Fisheries - the Managing Authority for POPAM, has the obligation to ensure the fulfillment of the duties arising from the functions provided by European and national legislation, and to take concrete measures to ensure the prudent and efficient management of European funds allocated to the fishing and aquaculture sector.

The aim is to maintain a sustained pace of project implementation, which is a mandatory condition for increasing the absorption of POPAM funds, with a clear effect in avoiding the risk of disengagement of funds related to concluded contracts.