Razvan Ungureanu has had a meeting with Mr. Dacian Ciolos, European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development. PM Ungureanu has outlined that Romania backs important funds earmarking for the Common Agricultural Policy, alongside the cohesion policy, in the context of negotiations for the future post – 2013 EU financial framework.
“Agriculture is important for our, which should receove appropriate financial support, mainly destined to modernization, investment in rural infrastructure and guaranteeing food security”, the Head of Executive stated during the meeting with the European Commissioner.
Two pillars
PM Mihai – Razvan Ungureanu has noticed the fact that the European Commission’s package on agriculture is in accordance with Romania’s priorities, namely an architecture what is based on two pillars (direct payments and market mechanisms – Pillar I, rural development – Pillar II), measures to support markets. “Romanian authorities appreciate the efforts you make with a view to shaping a new mission for the Common Agricultural Policy, which to include both the role of agriculture in ensuring food security, and that of creating value –added and economic development potential in rural areas”.
A well defined stance on the reform
The European Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dacian Ciolos appreciates it, that Romania has already a well defined stance on the reform of the Common Agricultural Policy, which has to be actively supported at European level, over the ensuing period.
The absorption of European funds for agriculture
The issue of absorption of European funds for agriculture has been approached, during the meeting. The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Stelian Fuia, has informed that on direct payments component, the absorption rate is almost 100%, and for rural development, it’s 34%.
No risk of de-funding
In this context, European Commissioner Dacian Ciolos has stated that this year, there is no risk of de-funding, outlining that the absorption rate should be maintained, especially the payments for projects what will be or are implementated. European Commissioner Dacian Ciolos has also outlined the importance of broadband Internet project, broadband in rural areas, as basic element of local infrastructure. The meeting at Victoria Palace has also been attended by Secretary of State, Mrs. Ioana Muntean, Spokesperson for the Executive.
News source: Guvernul Romaniei link: article
