Brussels: The key priorities of the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the field of fisheries were presented on Tuesday at the European Parliament by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panayiotou, who underlined the need for a more autonomous, resilient and competitive European Union.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Minister Panayiotou addressed the European Parliament's Committee on Fisheries (PECH), emphasizing that sustainability, food security, and the Union's strategic autonomy are central to the Cypriot Presidency's agenda. This focus comes amidst challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and geopolitical instability. She expressed condolences for the recent railway accident in Andalusia and highlighted an autonomous EU as a key theme, aiming for a Union that is resilient, self-sufficient, and engaged globally.
Minister Panayiotou outlined five pillars of the Presidency, with agriculture and fisheries emphasized under autonomy through competitiveness. The Cypriot Presidency aims to enhance the competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of Europe's fisheries and agricultural sectors while acknowledging challenges like climate change and political instability. Fisheries and agriculture are crucial for food security and the Union's strategic autonomy, offering health and environmental benefits and promoting healthy diets.
Collaboration with the European Parliament, especially the PECH Committee, is essential to address the needs of European fishers and consumers. The Minister stressed that cooperation among the Parliament, Council, and European Commission is key to achieving results. The Cypriot Presidency seeks to reinforce the Common Fisheries Policy to boost sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness and ensure coastal communities' prosperity. The Presidency will also focus on legislative files related to regional fisheries management and international relations, including Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements.
Minister Panayiotou shared her connection to rural life and the sea, emphasizing her comprehensive view on fisheries, aquaculture, agriculture, forestry, and the environment. She acknowledged the contributions of Polish and Danish Presidencies and thanked the PECH Committee for their role in advancing the programme's objectives.
In response to questions, the Minister highlighted that the Cypriot Presidency will prioritize meaningful dialogue. Progress in European policymaking requires open discussions among the European Parliament, Council, and Commission. This approach is vital for discussions on the Common Fisheries Policy and primary sector challenges. The Presidency aims to mediate structured dialogue, ensuring the European Parliament's positions are considered. She stressed the urgency of action against climate change impacts on production and fisheries.
Addressing concerns about the Common Fisheries Policy and fleet renewal, Minister Panayiotou noted that the European Commission's proposals are under review. The Presidency's priority is to balance sector needs within budget limits and facilitate dialogue between the Council and Parliament for comprehensive policy support.