During their meeting in Maribor, Minister for Rural Development Sándor Fazekas and Slovenian Minister for Agriculture and Environment Franc Bogovič reviewed the standpoint of the two countries on the most important issues relating to the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

With relation to CAP funding, they both agreed that there is a continued need for such support and that both direct payments and rural development funding are of equal importance.

In a telephone interview with the Hungarian news agency MTI, Sándor Fazekas stated that especially lively discussions were held on the issue of environmental regulations, as both countries feel that it is excessive for 7 percent of agricultural land to be removed from production for use as ecological target areas. They also view the increase in the ratio of grassland as a problem.

Both parties at the talks agreed on the importance of greater support for young farmers. In the words of Sándor Fazekas, "The Slovenians are inclined to accept the Hungarian proposal according to which every farmer under the age of 40 would receive funding."

The Ministers reviewed Hungarian and Slovenian regulations on foods that are distributed directly by farmers, as well as related experiences and practices. Both countries face similar challenges. Slovenia also sells significant quantities of imported foods, and the country of origin of products is not always easily recognised, said Sándor Fazekas.

With respect to drought damage, Sándor Fazekas stressed that in September in Brussels he is planning to recommend that those who have suffered damages as a result of drought should receive aid from the solidarity fund. Sándor Fazekas told MTI that his Slovenian colleague accepted this idea warmly. According to the Minister, it is important that the EU bring determined measures with relation to drought damage. Rapid solutions are required so that agriculture and farmers can keep afloat.

On Saturday, Sándor Fazekas will take part in the 50th Jubilee opening ceremony of the AGRA International Agriculture and Food Fair in Gornja Radgona.

(MTI, Press Office of the Ministry of Rural Development)