The categorical assurance that the flow of agricultural subsidies is not at risk was provided by the Minister for Rural Development and Food, Margaritis Schinas, speaking at the 11th Delphi Economic Forum.
In particular, he stressed that «I can put my hand on fire that the payments will continue», making it clear that the transition to the new system takes place without calling into question the financing of producers.
As he explained, the process of changing the payment model is particularly demanding, as «We pay while we change», describing it «extremely difficult» exercise.
Regarding the OPEKEPE case, he said sceptically that those who did not do so would not be able to do so. «They protest the European prosecution, it's like protesting the weather», leaving sharps against recent statements made by the government against the European prosecution.
Referring to payments, he noted that only EUR 250 million was paid during the Great Week, while by the end of June a corresponding amount is expected to be paid and by the end of the year the total amount will reach EUR 1 billion.
At the same time, it repeated the three main axes – «construction sites» on which, as he said, the political leadership of the Ministry of Rural Development moves.
In particular, Mr. Schinas referred to the complete reform of the payment system, with the transition from OPEKEPE to AADE, which, «done on the move»As he mentioned. As he said, a crucial test of this transition is the credibility that the country must demonstrate to the EU in order to give us the relevant certification. «We must do in a short time what has not happened for years», he said, adding that the EU appears willing to give the necessary adjustment time. «The pace is negotiated, the direction is not»He also clarified that payments would continue during the transitional period, provided that the rules were complied with.
As a second «construction site» It identified the formulation of the new CFP. He correctly described the EU's proposal in principle and added that the condition is that we succeed in strengthening the credibility of Greece. «If we proceed to rearrange the payment system, we will also strengthen our voice in Europe.», stated.
Third important «construction site» Mr Schinas is the battle against epizootic diseases, as today in Lesvos there is a major battle against foot-and-mouth disease. As he noted, controls have intensified, while the main objective is to limit the spread of the virus. This battle has not been judged, he said, while talking about the need to slaughter positive animals and preventive vaccinations. «Our goal is to normalise the situation in Lesvos, without any discount on controls and surveillance», stated.
As far as the Mercosur agreement (Southern Common Market) is concerned, it estimated that it would bring more opportunities than risks. «Our quality products have nothing to fear, but they will multiply their markets», stated. «The agricultural sector in Greece has a bright future that we have not yet shaped. There is potential in the primary sector»Go on, Mr. Rope.
Food security and European funding
At the next panel followed by Mrs Gelsomina Vigliotti, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Minister analysed the food security aspects.
In particular, it referred to the need to address the consequences of the climate crisis, to avoid protectionism, but also to strengthen the supply chain.
At the same time, it has presented the potential that the EU is planning through a variety of financial instruments to enhance opportunities, cohesion and competitiveness.
The Minister also spoke of the digital transformation of the primary sector and the use of new technologies, repeating the importance of reforming the payment system.
Continuing, it was the need to overcome the structural weaknesses of the primary sector, pointing out that «The future of Greek agriculture cannot be just payments»But it requires a wider development model.
Mrs Vigliotti, for her part, pointed out that the primary sector is a key priority for funding EU and EIB institutions. As it has been known, around EUR 8 billion have been allocated to support farmers against the consequences of the climate crisis and to develop digital technologies and TN in agricultural production.
In addition, it referred to the financial intermediation offered by the Bank, aimed at ensuring flexible and low-interest loans, pointing out that an additional EUR 3 billion is available for agricultural production.
