M. Panagiotou: CAP as a Key Pillar for Supporting Agricultural Income

The Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Maria Panagiotou, stated that the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) must remain a key pillar for supporting agricultural income beyond 2027, ensuring European and global food security.

Ms. Panagiotou made this statement during the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Brussels, where the proposal for the CAP post-2027, trade-related agricultural issues, and fishing opportunities in the Mediterranean, Black Sea, Atlantic, and North Sea were discussed.

The Minister emphasized that support under the CAP should include all farmers, regardless of employment or age, taking into account the specificities of Member States. She also referred to state mechanisms for creating strategic grain reserves.

Regarding trade-related agricultural issues, Ms. Panagiotou supported the Commission's efforts for mutually beneficial agreements, adhering to the rules of the World Trade Organization, and stressed the importance of respecting European production standards for imported agricultural products.

Additionally, the Minister mentioned the challenges Cyprus faces in the Eastern Mediterranean due to the harassment of Cypriot fishermen by Turkish authorities.

On the sidelines of the Council, Ms. Panagiotou had bilateral meetings with Alois Rainer, Annie Genevard, Herbert Dorfmann, and Emma Reynolds, discussing issues of mutual interest.