On 23 September, liberal Ministers responsible for agriculture and fisheries met in Brussels for the 15th AGRIFISH Pre-Council meeting, ahead of the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council.
Hosted by Elsi Katainen MEP (Keskusta, FI), the meeting brought together Anne-Catherine Dalcq, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of Wallonia (MR, BE) and Timmy Dooley, Minister of State with responsibility for Fisheries and the Marine (Fianna Fáil, IE).
Discussions focused on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) beyond 2027 and key agricultural trade issues. Ministers exchanged views on the European Commission’s proposals to reform CAP, support farmers and boost investment in innovation and rural development.
They also reviewed trade-related issues, highlighting the liberal call for free and fair trade to uphold EU standards on environment, climate and human rights.
Throughout the discussion, participants stressed the need to reduce bureaucracy for farmers, support sustainable farming practices and ensure Europe’s agriculture remains competitive and resilient in the face of global challenges.
Click here to see more photos from the meeting.