Ukraine, Sweden to expand cooperation in agriculture, food sector

The relevant statement was made by the Ukrainian Agrarian Policy and Food Ministry, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“Recently, a historic step has been taken in Stockholm – the Buy Ukrainian Products initiative was officially presented. And today in Brussels, I have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, food and irrigation with Swedish Rural Affairs Minister Peter Kullgren,” the report states.

The Memorandum will be valid for three years, with automatic prolongation for another three years. The document opens up new opportunities for cooperation in the agricultural and food sectors between Ukraine and Sweden.

The key areas of cooperation include the restoration and reconstruction of agricultural value chains and infrastructure in Ukraine through joint projects; assistance in facilitating commercial, scientific and technological contacts in agriculture, fisheries, food industry and irrigation between government, research institutions and other organizations; harmonization of Ukrainian legislation in agriculture and fisheries with EU requirements; cooperation at the level of businesses and associations in the grain industry, horticulture, poultry, meat and dairy, fish processing, niche crops, etc.; cooperation in the production and development of the food industry; transfer of knowledge and experience in the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable agriculture.

As emphasized by Koval, Sweden once again proves that it is a reliable friend of Ukraine. Thus, the Ukrainian minister believes that such partnership will beneficial for the agricultural sectors of the two countries.

A reminder that, during a meeting of the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AGRIFISH) in Brussels, Ukrainian Agrarian Policy and Food Minister Vitalii Koval emphasized that Ukraine was posing no threat to European farmers and was not asking for trade privileges, but was seeking an equal partnership with the European Union.

Photo: Ukrainian Agrarian Policy and Food Ministry