(ANSA) - BRUXELLES, 09 OTT - The European Commission has backed an additional 4 million euros in humanitarian aid for Serbia to assist refugees and asylum-seekers. The new projects include food distribution in reception centres, the protection of the most vulnerable people and educational activities.

While in Serbia to assess the humanitarian situation on the ground, EU Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides announced the new funding. The Commissioner visited the Obrenovac reception centre and met with government officials. "Obrenovac reception centre is proof of commitment to all actors and immense hospitality of Serbian people", he wrote on his Twitter account.

It is Stylianides' fourth official visit to Serbia. Brussels and Belgrade cooperation "has allowed an effective response to the refugee crisis", he said. The Commissioner pointed out that the EU is fully committed to improving reception conditions, providing food, education and health services. "The additional projects announced today will address the needs of the most vulnerable population especially during the upcoming winter season", Stylianides explained.

Since 2015, EU has provided more than 80 million euros to help the country managing the migration flows.(ANSA).