Agriculture
The transition to a climate neutral economy is one of the greatest challenges for the EU. Farmers and fishermen will play a crucial role in achieving this important goal. But they will need help. Our future policies have to ensure fair transition and decent living. In the meantime, European farmers deserve certainty and predictability. With that in mind, we need to reach an agreement on CAP transitional rules as soon as possible, and keep the old rules functioning during the transitional period. Nobody should be left behind.
Marija Vučković, minister for Agriculture of Croatia
European Green Deal
In a public session the Commission presentеd its communication 'The European Green Deal' published on 11 December 2019. 'The Farm to Fork' strategy and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) are identified in the communication as the main tools to help farmers and fishermen fight climate change, protect the environment and preserve biodiversity.
Following the presentation, ministers held a discussion about the agricultural aspects of the European Green Deal based on a steering note prepared by the presidency.
- European Green Deal (European Commission)
- The European Green Deal - agricultural aspects, 15 January 2020
- Exchange of views on the European Green Deal, 27 January 2020
Regulation on CAP transitional rules
Based on a presidency paper, ministers also exchanged views on the proposal for a regulation on CAP transitional rules. It aims to ensure continuity of CAP support to European farmers and other beneficiaries in 2021 since the new strategic plans will not be able to apply from January 2021.
- Regulation laying down transitional provisions for EAFRD and EAGF support in 2021, preparation of the Council debate, 14 January 2020
- Proposal for a Regulation laying down transitional provisions for EAFRD and EAGF support in 2021, 14 January 2020
- Exchange of views on CAP transitional rules, 27 January 2020
Any other business
Animal welfare labelling
The German delegation provided information on parliamentary discussions in Germany on a national label distinguishing food produced in accordance with animal welfare standards exceeding the minimum legal requirements, and of Germany's position in favour of an EU-wide animal welfare label for such food.
African Swine Fever (ASF)
The European Commission informed on the outcome of the high-level international conference "The future of global pork production under the threat of African swine fever".
Joint Declaration of France, Germany and Spain on the future CAP
The French delegation presented a joint statement signed on 19 December 2019 by the Ministers of agriculture of Germany, Spain and France regarding the future of the Common Agricultural Policy.
Honey labelling
On behalf of several delegations, Slovenia and Portugal presented a declaration on origin labelling of honey blends.
