Ramón Fernández-Pacheco, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, has requested Christophe Hansen, the European Union’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, in Madrid to recognize the unique climate of Andalusia and provide greater funding to the region.
During an event organized by the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, Luis Planas, the Minister of Agriculture had the opportunity to present the needs and demands of the Andalusian agricultural sector to the European Commissioner and other regional ministers from across Spain.
Fernández-Pacheco explained that Andalusia is a region «south of the south» and one of the most affected by episodes of droughts and floods. He emphasized the importance of recognizing this specific uniqueness to access the necessary financial resources for essential hydraulic works to ensure water supply, address drought periods, and manage floods. He also highlighted the need for measures to support the use of unconventional water resources.
The Andalusian government has allocated significant financial resources and various assistance programs to alleviate the situation and mitigate the production losses of farmers and livestock breeders. However, additional compensatory funds are required to enhance competitiveness with other regions.
Competing on equal terms
Fernández-Pacheco stressed the need for the European Union to implement mirror clauses to ensure equal competition with third countries and achieve greater productivity.
He also mentioned Andalusia’s interest in the new multiannual financial framework to clarify the role of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) in the region.
Invitation for the Commissioner to visit Andalusia
The Minister invited the Commissioner to visit Andalusia to witness the region’s agricultural strength, emphasizing the importance of a strong, independent CAP with increased funding to address the challenges facing the agricultural sector and ensure European food sovereignty.
He also pledged active collaboration from Andalusia with the Spanish government on common EU matters of general interest.