Baltic agriculture ministers discuss joint food security efforts

TALLINN - Estonian Minister of Regional Affairs and Agriculture Hendrik Johannes Terras, Latvian Minister of Agriculture Armands Krauze and Lithuanian Minister of Agriculture Ignas Hofmanas met on Monday to discuss regional food security and agricultural policy.

The main topic was the future of the European Union's common agricultural policy (CAP) in light of the upcoming multiannual financial framework. Terras noted that as the proposal for the next period is expected soon, the Baltic states need to align their positions.

"The Baltic states believe that the common agricultural policy must continue as an independent policy, and the distribution of its budget must take into account the security challenges faced by countries along the EU's eastern border," Terras said.

The ministers also focused on ensuring regional food security and supply reliability amid the changing security environment. To strengthen the resilience of the food supply chain, they discussed practical cooperation options.

"At the meeting, we proposed establishing a joint Baltic working group to help prevent and address potential bottlenecks in crisis situations," Terras added.

The agenda also included future cooperation within the international Peace Bread network, with discussions centered on how to better involve young people in dialogue on rural development with policymakers.