EU Agriculture Ministers and European Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan discussed the work of the Working Group on Rural Africa (see EUROPE 12115) on Monday 19 November in Brussels.
Four key issues have been identified, which should be considered as political priorities for support from the EU and its Member States, explained the chair of this working group, Irish MEP Tom Arnold: the use of a territorial approach, measures to support the ongoing transition of African agriculture, investments in a sustainable African agri-food industry, protection and management of natural resources.
The final report of this working group is expected to be presented on 18 December at the High-Level Forum Africa-Europe to be held on 17-18 December in Vienna.
During the debate, Luis Planas and Carola Schouten, respectively the Spanish and Dutch Agriculture Ministers, explained how the development of African agriculture could contribute to the achievement of the objectives of the Paris Agreement on climate change.
Hungarian Minister István Nagy highlighted the continent's potential role in soil productivity and biodiversity. The important work done by women in rural areas was mentioned by several delegations. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)