Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment of Cyprus, Dr. Maria Panayiotou, referred to the Vision for Agriculture and Food, the energy transition in the primary sector and trade issues, pointing out that the aim is to ensure that agriculture remains at the center of trade agreements and multilateral discussions.

In statements she made before the start of the Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AGRIFISH), which is taking place on Monday, in Brussels, Panayiotou noted that today’s Council is being held at a particularly difficult time for the primary sector, due to the increasing pressure caused by the rising cost of production and the volatile global trade environment. 

She noted that these developments affect not only farmers’ income, but the entire ecosystem that is directly or indirectly linked to agriculture.

She underlined that the exchange of views on the Vision for Agriculture is of particular importance in the current circumstances, as it aims to provide stability and predictability, while ensuring a balance between competitiveness and sustainability. She pointed out that the discussion is taking place one year after the start of the Vision’s implementation, focusing on the progress of its delivery and the assessment of its suitability, adding that the views of the Ministers will be taken into account should any adjustments be required.

The Minister added that one of the key items on the agenda is the energy transition in the EU’s agriculture and fisheries sectors, highlighting the importance of reducing dependence on fossil fuels, both in order to achieve European sustainability objectives and to strengthen the economic viability of a particularly vulnerable sector.

Referring to trade-related issues, Panayiotou noted that agriculture is a key driver of European competitiveness, supporting millions of jobs and the economic activity of rural and coastal communities. She also stressed that the objective is to ensure that agriculture remains at the center of trade agreements and multilateral discussions.

She also expressed the view that the discussion among the Ministers will be productive, with the aim of addressing the challenges faced by the primary sector and strengthening its resilience for the future.

CNA/CPI/EPH/2026

ENDS, CYPRUS NEWS AGENCY