Brussels, 13/07/2009 (Agence Europe) - The reform of the common fisheries policy (CFP), global challenges (food and climate change) and the health and well-being of farm animals are the three main priorities of the Swedish Presidency in the field of agriculture and fisheries, Swedish Minister for Agriculture Eskil Erlandsson announced on Monday 13 July.
In the field of fisheries, "the sustainable exploitation of resources" is paramount, the Swedish minister told his EU counterparts, during a public discussion on the priorities of the Presidency. In the autumn, a working lunch will be held between the European ministers to discuss the reform of the CFP. Another requirement is a system for the monitoring of fishing activities "which works well", and it is also vital to ensure that the fish which are consumed have been caught legally. The Swedish Presidency hopes that an agreement can be reached by the Council in October on a revision of the monitoring system for fishing activities.
"The agricultural sector is a key actor in the measures that climate change calls for. Agriculture must contribute to reduce climate impact while adapting to changes in the climate", Mr Erlandsson explained. "The production of sustainable energy and energy efficiency measures are crucial in this context", the Presidency added. Agriculture and climate change will be the subject of the discussions of the European agriculture ministers at their informal meeting, to be held in Sweden from 13 to 15 September.
"Securing global food security for future generations is a challenge", said the minister, particularly in view of the fact that the world's population is expected to double by 2050. The FAO, which is due to meet in the autumn, will play a major role in this field.
The Swedish Presidency aims to advance the work on animal health and welfare issues. Amongst other things, it hopes that the Council will arrive at a common position on the directive on the protection of animals used for scientific purposes. Agreement is also expected at the Council on legislation on the movement of pet animals (dogs, cats etc). A conference on animal welfare will be held in Uppsala, Sweden, on 8-9 October.
In addition, the Presidency is planning: - the adoption of the conclusions of the Council on the implementation of the "hygiene" package: - a discussion in October on the future of the CAP (with particular emphasis on the "rural development" plank); - the continuation of discussions on simplifying the CAP (the Commission will table proposals in November); - to bring the Council to an agreement in December on a proposal to combat the illegal logging of timber; - the continuation of discussions on the situation of the milk market (see other article). (L.C./transl.fl)