The 18th Annual Working Meeting of Ministers of Agriculture from South Eastern Europe (SEE), held in Skopje, North Macedonia, on September 24th, brought together key leaders to set strategic objectives for agriculture and rural development in the region.
This meeting, jointly organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Economy of North Macedonia and the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG RRD) in SEE focused on aligning regional goals with the broader political agenda of integrating the Western Balkans into the European Union (EU).
The ministers adopted a set of actionable objectives that will shape the region’s agricultural policies and rural development efforts. Furthermore, the gathering played important role in contributing to the upcoming Berlin Process Summit in October 2024. A key focus was ensuring that agriculture and rural development are integral components of the Berlin Process, enhancing cooperation and reinforcing these sectors as vital to the EU integration efforts of the Western Balkans.
Declaration of Ministers of Agriculture from SEE 2024
“We, at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture and within the German government, will keep up our support of South Eastern Europe. The Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG RRD) in SEE, the Agricultural Policy Dialogue (APD) and also the Berlin Process provide ideal platforms. We are eagerly looking forward to the upcoming meeting of the Heads of States within the Berlin Process this October, as this meeting will contribute to paving the way for your countries to join the European Union. I firmly believe that our collaboration is not just beneficial but essential. By joining forces, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other, we can build more resilient agricultural systems and forests, protect our environment, and create a future that benefits us all” stated Ms. Silvia Bender, State Secretary, Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
In the official addressing Mr. Janusz Wojciechowski, Commissioner, European Commission stated “The EU accession remains a key driver of long-term security, peace, stability and prosperity across Europe. Now more than ever, we need to work together. We must continue our common efforts. To ensure the economic viability of the sector, you must continue to prepare your agri-food value chains for the competitive pressures of the EU market and the modern world economy. The EU is supporting the reform path of the Western Balkans – as well as your economic recovery, regional cooperation, and your green and digital transformations. The European Commission encourages the use IPARD funds to finance projects that are beneficial for the environment, and that enhance knowledge and innovation. This will support the implementation of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, bringing many tangible benefits to the region. Remember that what you build now, and how you perform with IPARD, will pave the way for the future implementation of the CAP in your countries”.
Programme for the 18th Annual Working Meeting of the Ministers of Agriculture SEE
