The 20th Annual Working Meeting of the Ministers of Agriculture from South East Europe (SEE) took place on 30 September, 2026, in Belgrade, Serbia.
Hosted under the joint auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Republic of Serbia and the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG) in South East Europe, meeting brought together Ministers and Heads of Delegations from across the SEE region, representatives of the European Union and partners from international organizations to engage in high-level discussions on the future of agriculture and rural development. The meeting highlighted the importance of supporting farmers and rural communities, strengthening climate resilience, investing in knowledge and innovation, creating opportunities for young people in rural areas and improving regional preparedness for future challenges.
“It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 20th jubilee edition of the Annual Working Meeting of the Ministers of Agriculture of South-Eastern Europe here in Belgrade. It is a particular pleasure to see so many colleagues and partners gathered today, all ready to exchange views and work together on issues that are important for the future of agriculture and rural development in our region. The participation we have today is a clear reflection of the importance we attach to this cooperation and to our common work. For twenty years, this meeting has provided an opportunity for our countries to exchange experiences, discuss common challenges and identify ways to move forward together. Today, we have another opportunity to learn from one another, share our experiences and discuss priorities in the areas of agriculture, rural development and forestry” stated Mr. Boban Ilic, SWG Secretary General.
“For all our countries, the European integration process remains an important objective. At the same time, our cooperation should not be limited to the formal steps of the accession process. By working together, sharing knowledge and addressing common challenges, we can support each other in making real progress and in preparing our agricultural sectors for the future” stressed out SWG Secretary General.
During the meeting SWG Secretary General highlighted the importance of negotiating Chapter 11 (Agriculture and Rural Development) and encouraged candidate countries to make full use of EU support. He stressed the urgent need for climate-resilient agri-food systems, stronger food security, early-warning systems and innovative solutions for farmers and consumers. The meeting also showcased availability of FAO learning platform and reaffirmed cooperation with SCAR AKIS and wider European research and innovation networks. Adoption of the SWG Strategy 2026–2030 will strengthen evidence systems, harmonize indicators and advance innovative, sustainable agriculture, as a part of the cooperation within the Belin Process, focusing on implementation and monitoring of Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.
Official addresses was delivered by the Ministers and Heads of Delegations from South East Europe and the European Union, alongside representatives from international organizations. The event also offer an opportunity for bilateral meetings between Ministers and Heads of Delegations. Ministers adopted joint conclusions from the Meeting which will be presented at the forthcoming Berlin Process Leaders’ Summit in Budva, Montenegro.
