Thank you, Executive Vice-President Fitto, dear Rafaelle, for setting the scene so well.
Today, with this Vision, we are sending a clear message to the farming and food community:
- Farming and food are strategic sectors critical to Europes food sovereignty, competitiveness, sustainability agenda, and rural vitality.
- The agri-food sector is valued for its services, and our policies will continue to support it.
- Europe will protect its agri-food sector against unfair competition and remain united against geopolitical threats.
- Despite challenges, farmers, fishers, and the food industry are part of the solution, and we will work with them to design pragmatic solutions.
This Vision fully recognizes Europes diverse farming landscape, which is a significant strength. Our responses must be tailored to address varied challenges across regions.
As EVP Fitto explained, the Vision focuses on four priority areas:
- greater fairness and profitability,
- more agile and innovation-driven policies to enhance competitiveness and resilience,
- nature and climate-friendly approaches that reward farmers,
- a generation of Europeans valuing European food and rural areas.
Highlighting key aspects, we must attract young people to farming despite challenges like low income and difficult conditions. Fairness and predictability are crucial for attracting new generations, and we aim to ensure fair pay and support innovation and new business models like the bioeconomy.
We will tackle barriers to generational renewal, such as access to land and skills, with a Generational Renewal Strategy. Fair global competition and alignment on production standards are essential for our farmers. We oppose the use of hazardous pesticides banned in the EU in imported products and will promote our standards internationally.
Competitiveness requires less bureaucracy, and we will propose simplification packages to alleviate regulatory burdens, allowing farmers to focus on food production.
Farming, food, and the environment are interconnected. The future of farming depends on healthy soils, water, biodiversity, and pollinators. We must provide farmers with the tools to reduce emissions and protect biodiversity, with research and innovation playing a crucial role.
Finally, an attractive agri-food sector requires vibrant rural areas and a strong link to food. We aim to reinforce the connection between farming, food, and territory, enabling informed choices and promoting dialogue through initiatives like annual Food Dialogues.
Ladies and gentlemen, we are launching a conversation with clear proposals to prepare for the future so that European agriculture can thrive. I am determined to make it happen. Thank you.