Fintan Farrell, Director of EAPN, took part in the panel discussion about the implementation of the partnership principle. To go beyond the virtual use of the partnership principle, he stressed the importance of giving a real content to this principle by involving the NGO sector at all stages of the structural Funds process (from design to assessment phases). This also increases the credibility and ownership of programmes and ensures a better absorption of funds. This meeting is the starting point of a more regular cooperation with the NGO sector. Another meeting will be organized after the publication of the 5th Cohesion Report at the beginning of November. For further information, please contact Vincent Caron vincent.caron@eapn.eu.