(ANSA) - TRIESTE, 10 FEB - BRUSSELS - The EC gave the green light to over 86 million euros to bring the new generation broadband to Croatia, thanks to the European Regional Development Fund. In line with EU digital strategy and policies, the investment will provide Croatian rural and suburban settlements with access to high-speed Internet services.

According to the European Commissioner for Cohesion, Elisa Ferreira, "by helping to overcome the digital divide between urban and rural populations, this project will open up new economic opportunities and stimulate Croatia's socio-economic development." Better connectivity will be vital for rural crafts and micro-enterprises, which will enter new markets and benefit from e-services for the first time. Moreover, the government will expand its digital education services and systems, including distance learning. (ANSA).