After the meeting, which discussed the possibility of EU funding for the Pelješac Bridge, Pusić said Croatia may be granted EU funds to build the Pelješac Bridge provided it draws up a study that shows it is the best solution.
"The best solution does not mean financially only, but a whole range of other elements also need to be taken into account, such as political and technical feasibility, as well as protection of the environment," Pusić added.
Pusić said that funds for drawing up such a study could be ensured from the IPA pre-accession fund already this year. "I hope we can prepare this study by the end of the year because in this case we are not starting from scratch. The study should take into account not just construction of the bridge, but also a corridor through the Neum area, a combination of the corridor and ferry services, all possible solutions."
"We have made an important step by opening this possibility. Now it is up to us to prove that it can be done and I hope we will succeed in it," Pusić said.
"Obviously, it is important to discuss this not just with the Commissioner for Regional Policy, but also with the Enlargement Commissioner, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, and with the section of the Commission dealing with phytosanitary standards," she added.
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