The Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Dr. Maria Panagiotou, participated on Monday in the proceedings of the European Union’s Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Brussels.

According to a statement, this was the first Council meeting following the conclusion of the Cypriot Presidency and under the new Irish Presidency. In her remarks, the Minister congratulated Ireland on assuming its duties and stated that Cyprus will continue to work actively to shape European policies that ensure the sustainability andcompetitiveness of agriculture and fisheries.

Strategy for Livestock and Proteins

During the discussion on the EU Strategy for Livestock and the Action Plan on Proteins, Dr. Panagiotou noted that the two initiatives are key tools for strengthening the resilience of European agriculture, ensuring food security, and strengthening the Union’s strategic autonomy.

According to the announcement, the Minister emphasized that the success of these initiatives requires adequate funding, substantial flexibility, and respect for national specificities, without placing a unilateral burden on the resources of the Common Agricultural Policy.

Referring to Cyprus’s needs as an island nation, she highlighted the need to strengthen biosecurity, prevention, and the effective management of animal diseases. She also mentioned the need to ensure a level playing field for European livestock farmers, who are being called upon to adapt to new requirements and increased pressures.

The Role of Women in Agriculture

Ms. Panagiotou made special mention of the role of women in agriculture, noting that the designation of 2026 as the International Year of Women Farmers is an important opportunity to highlight the need to strengthen women’s presence and voice in the agri-food sector.

As stated in the announcement, the Minister emphasized that women farmers make a decisive contribution to food security, the promotion of innovation, and the sustainable development of rural areas.

She also stressed the need to adopt policies that ensure equal access to education, financing, land, and entrepreneurship, as well as strengthening women’s participation in decision-making.

Geographical Indications and Trade

On trade-related agricultural issues, the Minister highlighted the strategic importance of Geographical Indications as a competitive advantage for European agriculture.

According to the press release, Ms. Panagiotou noted that Geographical Indications protect the authenticity and quality of European products, support producers, and promote the sustainable development of rural areas.

The Minister reiterated that Cyprus believes the protection of Geographical Indications must be a non-negotiable priority in all EU trade agreements with third countries, through binding provisions and effective enforcement mechanisms, in order to combat counterfeiting and unauthorized use.

As noted in the communication, through its active participation in European discussions, Cyprus continues to support policies that strengthen the sustainability, competitiveness, and resilience of the European agri-food sector.

Source: CNA