Cypriot presidency concludes final EU Council on agriculture and fisheries

On Monday, Luxembourg hosted the final Agriculture and Fisheries Council (AgriFish) under the Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Maria Panayiotou presided over the meeting, emphasizing that agriculture and fisheries remain essential pillars for the EU's food security and sustainability. Regarding fisheries, the presidency facilitated adjustments to fishing opportunity regulations and advanced international agreements concerning ocean governance. The discussions also initiated a review of the Common Fisheries Policy, specifically looking toward 2027 and environmental adaptation. In the agricultural sector, the presidency focused on maintaining policy prominence amidst geopolitical instability, climate change impacts, and rising production costs. Efforts were directed toward supporting rural communities within the framework of the next Multiannual Financial Framework. The Council also recorded progress regarding agricultural income and overall sectoral stability during this six-month term.