Bratislava – Richard Takáč, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of Slovakia (Smer-SD), is actively engaging in bilateral discussions with agriculture ministers from EU member states. The Slovak Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MPRV) has stated that the purpose is to promote a united front among member states in advocating for a fair agricultural policy from the European Commission, according to TASR.
The primary focus of the discussions at Monday’s EU Council for Agriculture and Fisheries meeting in Luxembourg is the proposed new multiannual financial framework and the future direction of the Common Agricultural Policy post-2027, which significantly affects both European and Slovak agriculture.
Richard Takáč held meetings with his counterparts, including David Vlajčič, Croatia’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries; Norbert Totschnig, Austria’s Minister of Agriculture and Climate Protection; Maria Panayiotou, Cypriot Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment; Hendrik Johannes Terras, Estonian Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture; and Armands Krauze, Minister of Agriculture of Latvia.
He noted that representatives from Hungary and Romania urged the European Commission to enhance protection for farmers against agricultural imports from Ukraine, advocating for the establishment of a compensation fund for farmers that mirrors the EU’s plans regarding the Mercosur trade agreement.
Takáč cautioned his ministerial colleagues that the current proposals from the European Commission propose cuts to the agricultural budget and alterations to the Common Agricultural Policy, potentially undermining Slovakia’s competitiveness and threatening the viability of many farms.
“We cannot agree to a proposal that would jeopardize Slovakia’s food self-sufficiency and diminish support for honest farmers. For agriculture to meet its economic and ecological objectives, it requires stable and equitable financing,” stated Takáč.
The goal of his discussions is to foster a collective approach among member states to advocate for a realistic, financially sustainable, and just proposal for future agricultural policy from the European Commission.
“Slovakia believes that honest farmers, food producers, foresters, and rural regions deserve fair conditions. We must jointly pressure the European Commission to consider the needs of those who provide food for Europe daily,” highlighted Takáč, who also praised the constructive collaboration from various member countries in seeking solutions and forming a coalition advocating for just agricultural policies.
According to him, the Slovak Republic’s proposals at the EU level, which “always prioritize farmers,” are well-supported and respected by their partners. (October 28)
“We cannot agree to a proposal that would jeopardize Slovakia’s food self-sufficiency and reduce support for honest farmers.” Richard Takáč
Leave a Reply