The Black Sea has particularities that must be recognized and integrated into European decisions and I believe that the future of European fisheries policy must be built on a real balance between sustainability, competitiveness and the needs of coastal communities, declared on Tuesday the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Florin-Ionuţ Barbu, at the bilateral meeting with the European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, who is on an official visit to Romania.
According to a press release from the relevant ministry, the meeting took place in the context of the commissioner's commitment to visit coastal communities and have direct dialogues with all stakeholders involved at the local level.
Commissioner Kadis and Minister Barbu addressed the main priorities of the European Union in the fields of fisheries and aquaculture, including the future of the Common Fisheries Policy, the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework and the development of the blue economy.
A central point of the meeting was the specifics of the Black Sea, with Romania supporting the need for a balanced approach, which reflects regional realities and ensures fair competition conditions.
Minister Florin Barbu also highlighted the need for an integrated and simplified approach, based on data and adapted to the specifics of each sea basin, which would allow for the sustainable and competitive development of the sector. Particular emphasis was placed on aquaculture and processing, as essential pillars for increasing added value, developing coastal communities and strengthening food security.
"I believe that the future of European fisheries policy must be built on a real balance between sustainability, competitiveness and the needs of coastal communities. We need data-based policies, but also solutions adapted to the specifics of each sea basin. The Black Sea has particularities that must be recognized and integrated into European decisions. At the same time, if we want a resilient sector, we must invest more in aquaculture, processing and the value chain, so as to increase the value of products and reduce dependence on imports," declared the Minister of Agriculture, quoted in the press release.
During the discussions, the Romanian minister also emphasized the importance of ensuring an adequate and predictable financial framework, as well as flexible instruments to support investments and modernization of the sector.
At the same time, Romania reaffirmed its role as an active partner in the implementation of European policies, including by contributing to data collection and strengthening control mechanisms, in support of responsible management of fishery resources.
In turn, Commissioner Kadis appreciated that Romania is an important partner in the Black Sea region.
"Romania is an important partner in the Black Sea region and I appreciate its commitment to sustainable management of fisheries resources and the development of aquaculture. Today's dialogue confirms the importance of a data-based approach, adapted to the regional specificities and the need to support coastal communities in the transition towards a more resilient and competitive sector. We will continue to work together to ensure a coherent European framework that supports both the economic future and the sustainability of the fisheries sector," the European official said.
Comentează