Brussels: Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of Cyprus, Dr. Maria Panayiotou, referred to the Vision for Agriculture and Food, the energy transition in the primary sector and trade issues, pointing out that the aim is to ensure that agriculture remains at the center of trade agreements and multilateral discussions.
According to Cyprus News Agency, in statements made before the start of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AGRIFISH) in Brussels, Panayiotou noted that the Council is being held at a particularly difficult time for the primary sector, due to the increasing pressure caused by the rising cost of production and the volatile global trade environment. These developments impact not only farmers' income but the entire ecosystem directly or indirectly linked to agriculture.
Panayiotou underlined that the exchange of views on the Vision for Agriculture is significant under the current circumstances, as it aims to provide stability and predictability while ensuring a balance between competitiveness and sustainability. The discussion takes place one year after the Vision's implementation began, focusing on its progress and assessing its suitability. She added that the Ministers' views would be considered for any necessary adjustments.
The Minister highlighted the agenda's focus on the energy transition in the EU's agriculture and fisheries sectors, emphasizing the importance of reducing dependence on fossil fuels to achieve European sustainability objectives and strengthen the economic viability of this vulnerable sector.
Referring to trade-related issues, Panayiotou noted that agriculture is a key driver of European competitiveness, supporting millions of jobs and the economic activity of rural and coastal communities. She stressed the objective of keeping agriculture central in trade agreements and multilateral discussions.
She expressed optimism that the discussions among the Ministers would be productive, aiming to address the challenges faced by the primary sector and strengthen its resilience for the future.