Elsi KATAINEN

Policy topics Elsi KATAINEN is active on

What Elsi KATAINEN has said (62)

• 2026-07-14 “(18:19:35 - 18:23:26): So now our last speaker. It's the Ake Reiner reporter, Elsie Katainen. Thank you. Thank you, Chair. It's an honor to get the last words. And thank you all for remarks. Many important points have been raised, and I agree many of you. 1st, I'd like to remind that, we all agree this proposed system represent a massive change from previous frameworks and requires a return to the basics, addressing concerns about coordinating different system, which ensure the legislation, which work all for all these sectors. Regarding agriculture, I have few specific points to raise. 1st of all, the continuation of annual payments, they are extremely important from the perspective of agriculture. Our farmers shouldn't be left waiting for EU subsidies simply because of the NRP plans was not finalized soon enough. And then rural development and funding for rural areas are key objectives of this legislation and their continuity must be ensured within the future framework. And also, the framework must be as clear and simple as possible for our beneficiaries so that food security is ensured and farmers also have time to develop them farms and make investment to secure their future. And it is also important that we coordinate our efforts as we have already done with regard to the cap negotiations to ensure that the legislation is well aligned. And with regards to the crisis fund, it is important that farmers and those affected by the crisis receive funding, whether from the EU or at the national level, as effectively and flexibly as as possible. The system must be effective. Personally, I'm very concerned about potential national conflicts between agriculture and rural development between different sectors as well as inequality among member states as they will use their national flexibility in different ways. This also risks undermining the fairness of the internal market in the food sector, for example. And it is also important that the different governance models of the member states are recognized and that regions continue to have real opportunities to influence decisions that affect them. We will return to more detailed negotiations in the fall after a well deserved summer break, and we will face the tight schedule to conclude the negotiation before the end of the year and move afterward to the dialogues so that the legislation can be finalized in time before start of 20 28 when the implementation of the plan and payments are scheduled to begin. Thank you. Thank you all.”
  Agricultural funding
• 2026-07-14 “(16:42:32 - 16:45:53): Thank you, chair, and thank you, colleagues, for your views. As mentioned already, we have significant amount of amendments to go through. I want to thank for you cooperation. And I recall again the importance of your willingness to compromise during the negotiations, as we have many different views, and it is important to have a balanced outcome. As we all know, NRPP is bringing together many different programs. There is still some hesitations for the overall architecture, but I'm pleased to see that most of the groups from this house are already and ready to make this legislation more workable. We should keep that as our guiding principle in our coming work. On Agri issues, I'd like to remind that we have several amendments on the transferred parts. And we will not open the discussion again on these parts because they belong to cap negotiation now. So I hope that you have tabled these some amendments also for the cap regulation. It is important to secure the workable and stand alone common agricultural chapter under the NRPP framework, ensuring the food production all over the Europe is the cornerstone of our overall security. And that's why we cannot put agriculture and rural development against the regional development as there are so many synergies and we should more strengthen these than make both big. On the sectoral specific issues, we are more than interested to receive the opinions. Most of them has already arrived and some will arrive shortly, but I am happy to see that there is a good proposals how to enhance the text to fix the purpose. We will have close look on this during the negotiations, and you have brought your priorities during your negotiation this spring, and we are willing to incorporate ideas during the next phase of negotiations. And in addition, it is also important to find a suitable solution on the preparation of the plan, which includes our stakeholders, regional actors and all relevant participants so that local needs are taken on board and that the plan would not be decide decided in the capitals only. Attention needs to be paid also to the management and monitoring, which needs to draft, in a way that that it works for the the different funds as well. And with these words, I'm more than happy to hear our shadow shadow reporters and opinion giving committee's views on this matter. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• 2026-07-14 “Thank you, chair, and thank you, Minister, for your invitation. You will have a full agenda during your presidency. And you you have reflected many important issues in your programme. I can see a lot of good things like young farmers and farmers. Resilience and the expectations for you are pretty high. We are living in exciting times as Parliament is heading to the negotiations of NLP and the Cap and other agriculture related files. For me, as a rapporteur on NLP is important to keep a strong and individual cap in the framework framework of NLP legislation. We must find a balance between flexibility and commonality between member States and the EU EU level. I can be sure that we both can agree how important rural development is. We must ensure the vitality of rural areas and their contribution on the overall security, but also security of supply. So while delivering these parts to the actual legislation, do you see any possible risk on the NLP framework on commonality, but also the rural development. And in addition, I was really happy to see a bioeconomy strongly reflected in your program. Um, we are currently waiting for the Biotech Act number two. And I would like to ask how does you see how do you see the possibilities in the council side, these initiatives to be enhanced, especially in the way that it would benefit also our farmers. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• 2026-07-14 “(15:23:50 - 15:25:15): Thank you, Chair, and thank you for your impressive presentation, Director General. As you said, when everyone has food and water, we are all much safer. Unfortunately, we are currently facing more and more extreme weather events all over the world. Some areas like Africa is 1 of the 1st ones to face significant consequences. It is valuable that you are today giving the presentation on on the matter, so we can better understand the situation as as well, and, we can learn from your actions. On these situations, we must prepare ourselves better for the risks exposed by climate change. Of course, we cannot anticipate all possible risks we might face. But like we see already now, increasing amount of forest fires all over the year, which also raises concerns about food production. I'd like to ask you, how have farmers in Africa taken your initiatives? Do they find and recognize them? And how does the future look like? Do you have enough funds to keep this ongoing process? Thank you.”
  EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
• 2026-07-13 “(18:04:32 - 18:06:25): Thank you, Chair, and thank you all for your excellent presentations. Which remind us how farmers' resilience, can also be strengthened by improving the functioning of the fertilizer market and reducing price risks. Currently, fertilizer pricing is non transparent, in many places, which weakens competition, makes it difficult for farmers to make decision as well. We can all admit that we need more concrete measures to work with these issues. The EU should be more transparent and comparable, about the fertilizers fertilized prices in the member state level, not only EU level, but also the member state level. And this would increase competition in internal market, make the market more efficient and help farmers to produce their inputs at more competitive prices. At the same time, the EU should develop a future market for fertilizers. And this would maybe strengthen the competitiveness of agriculture and reduce dependence of market disruptions caused by important fertilizers. And I would like to hear concrete examples on how can we support farmers from from price fluctuations and on certain markets? And what do you think are the most vital things you should do to improve the fertilized markets and price transparency between member states. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• 2026-07-13 “(16:02:52 - 16:04:45): Thank you, chair. In the current competition position we are living now, despite all the challenges we've heard, it is important for the EU to strengthen cooperation with like-minded partners. This will help us reduce dependencies, creating new markets for European companies strengthen exports and competitiveness. EU cannot isolate. At the same time, however, it is important to ensure that agriculture doesn't once again become a bartering tool for trade policy objectives. Although the trade agreement applies to EU strict health and safety standards and includes the safeguard mechanism for sudden spikes in imports, many farmers and almost all of our politicians as well still have serious doubts about the balance of the agreement. This example applies heavily to the European sensitive sugar sector, which is now facing the trade with one of the world's largest and most competitive sugar exporters. Adding to the concerns is the fact that, at the same time, European farmers are struggling with rising costs and general uncertainty. I'd like to ask commission that how do you intend to convince European farmers that their concerns have been generally addressed in this trade agreement? And how will you ensure that the preparation and implementation of the agreement are communicated to farmers openly and transparently in the future? Thank you.”
  Trade relations with Mercosur
• 2026-07-13 “(16:57:51 - 16:59:35): You, Chair, and thank you for panelists for your presentation. It is obvious that the fertilized sector is under the pressure. And unfortunately, Commission's fertilized strategy didn't give much answers to this acute crisis, at least some solutions for longer term. It rise strongly now on the fossil based inputs outside Europe. And latest development all over the world, which are affecting the sector, don't help this situation. There is urgent need for new innovations possibilities to increase the European own fertilized production. More domestic production is needed as well as bio based alternatives. How do you see and how does the fertilized sector sees that? What kind of actions are needed from the legislative framework for enhancing the security of supply and strategic autonomy in Europe? There was some good initiatives in the fertilized action plan on the long term. In addition, on the analytics, is there it is interesting to see what kind of things has been taken into account on calculation. How do you see the effect all over the world? Is there other countries or continents which are also suffering from the situation? And what kind of, affection is there to our European farmers. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• 2026-07-08 “Thank you, chair, madam commissioner. Independence on Russian or Middle East fuels is not created by limiting strongly the use of natural resources in Europe. Bioeconomy is 1 of our main means to strengthen our autonomy based on renewable natural resources. We create jobs and and industry, and we improve our security of supply. We need consistent and coherent regular regulation. We also need investments in research. For example, the restoration, regulation is filled with insecurities regarding the price and its, effects. If we can't provide predictability to the companies, investments will not be made. It is important that the bioeconomy strategy recognizes the incredible potential of bio circularity. Now we actually need only a courage.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• 2026-06-29 “(17:36:28 - 17:38:16): Thank you, Chair, and thank for commission for your presentation. The fertilizer action plan is warmly welcomed initiative. But like I said many times before, we are too late, with concrete actions to help the ongoing situation. Proposal presented today is starting is some kind of starting point, and I look forward to other proposals regarding to this action plan. We are committed to work working with those when when the time comes. But for today, renew welcomes this targeted legislative review on the temporary support and payments of advances. This proposal won't solve all the problems, but gives a signal that EU is willing and ready to help our farmers. I recall implementing this provided flexibility in timely manner at the member state level, giving more flexibility to adapt the national strategic plan for this situation is really needed. And I truly wish that we can support this commission proposal as such and conclude the process before. Before the summer, 2 additional technical amendments proposed by council on principle of subsidiarity and 2nd, on the urgency of the proposal and role of the national parliaments are acceptable. If this process takes longer, our farmers can pocket the payment advances for for this year. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• 2026-06-29 “(18:05:46 - 18:08:41): Thank you, chair. I will speak on behalf of our renew shareholder, mister Gerens, who, unfortunately, couldn't be here today. I will read the statement from him. Thank you, Robert Beke, for this draft opinion. Overall, Rinu is very pleased with the direction of the text and welcomes its balanced approach. As this is the final year of the current MFF, it is worth remembering what European agriculture has endured over the past 6 years. Climate change, animal diseases, market instability and Russia's war against Ukraine have placed enormous pressure on our farmers who have shown remarkable resilience despite rising costs and growing uncertainty. Looking ahead, we already know that the next budget will be under pressure. We will be expected to do more with fewer resources. Yet agriculture remains a strategy sector for the European Union. It is fundamental to our force in security, competitiveness, rural vitality and strategic autonomy. 3 priorities stood quite our work. 1st, we must prepare for the future enlargement of the union. This transition must be carefully anticipated to preserve the stability of agricultural markets and ensure fair conditions for both farmers and consumers. 2nd, we need to strengthen the resilience of European agriculture. Recent outbreaks of blue tongue, African swine fever, lumpy skin disease and other animal diseases have shown that prevention is far more effective than crisis management. We, therefore, support stronger investment in preventive animal health, including vaccination, surveillance and the Tinian European preparedness mechanism to coordinate veterinary vaccines, while supporting EU production capacity. 3rd, we fully support the focus of generational renewable. However, attracting young farmers requires long term investment in people, innovation and vibrant rural communities. Finally, renew strongly supports a robust and dedicated cap budget after 2027. We must also preserve Horizon Europe and maintain ambitious funding for climate action. Agriculture and climate are inseparable, and our budget must reflect this reality. We thank the Robert Ture once again and look forward to working together with these issues. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding · Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
• 2026-06-29 “(15:19:01 - 15:21:33): And thank you, Mr. Linds, for your presentation. I will speak on behalf of our Renew CEO, Roberta Bari Gawen, who unfortunately couldn't be here. I will read statements for from him. I'd like to thank Meplinz for his draft report and for his close collaboration to date. As parliament begins to work, it is important that we continue to work constructively over the coming months to deliver a swift and balanced position that provides clarity and certainty for Europe's farmers as soon as possible. On the content, I agree with Mats on what mister Linz has proposed, especially regarding his amendments on making environmental ambition workable. It's important to highlight that this ambition will only succeed if it is practical at farm level. Incentives are what will drive change, not administrative burden. In line with the NRPP draft report, I will support 35% ring fencing for agri environmental schemes and hope that budget negotiations will ensure an increased cap budget to facilitate that ambition. Regarding, Dabis, I support the retention of mandatory decresivity, but at higher thresholds so as not to be overly punitive of farmers. On the topic of capping, I appreciate the sensitivities for our German and Eastern member state colleagues when it comes to this subject. On I support the commission's proposal of €100,000 but hope to be able to find some common ground with the rapporteur to find an acceptable landing zone and 1 that takes into account the structural sensitivities of certain firms. In my view, the solution to this problem cannot be achieved in isolation and require support for the entry of young and new farmers to be completed complemented with mechanism and support that facilitate orderly transfer of land and farming activity from farmers of, retirement age. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• 2026-06-29 “(17:36:28 - 17:38:16): Thank you, Chair, and thank for commission for your presentation. The fertilizer action plan is warmly welcomed initiative. But like I said many times before, we are too late, with concrete actions to help the ongoing situation. Proposal presented today is starting is some kind of starting point, and I look forward to other proposals regarding to this action plan. We are committed to work working with those when when the time comes. But for today, renew welcomes this targeted legislative review on the temporary support and payments of advances. This proposal won't solve all the problems, but gives a signal that EU is willing and ready to help our farmers. I recall implementing this provided flexibility in timely manner at the member state level, giving more flexibility to adapt the national strategic plan for this situation is really needed. And I truly wish that we can support this commission proposal as such and conclude the process before. Before the summer, 2 additional technical amendments proposed by council on principle of subsidiarity and 2nd, on the urgency of the proposal and role of the national parliaments are acceptable. If this process takes longer, our farmers can pocket the payment advances for for this year. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• 2026-06-29 “19:01 - 15:21:33): And thank you, Mr. Linds, for your presentation. I will speak on behalf of our Renew CEO, Roberta Bari Gawen, who unfortunately couldn't be here. I will read statements for from him. I'd like to thank Meplinz for his draft report and for his close collaboration to date. As parliament begins to work, it is important that we continue to work constructively over the coming months to deliver a swift and balanced position that provides clarity and certainty for Europe's farmers as soon as possible. On the content, I agree with Mats on what mister Linz has proposed, especially regarding his amendments on making environmental ambition workable. It's important to highlight that this ambition will only succeed if it is practical at farm level. Incentives are what will drive change, not administrative burden. In line with the NRPP draft report, I will support 35% ring fencing for agri environmental schemes and hope that budget negotiations will ensure an increased cap budget to facilitate that ambition. Regarding, Dabis, I support the retention of mandatory decresivity, but at higher thresholds so as not to be overly punitive of farmers. On the topic of capping, I appreciate the sensitivities for our German and Eastern member state colleagues when it comes to this subject. On I support the commission's proposal of €100,000 but hope to be able to find some common ground with the rapporteur to find an acceptable landing zone and 1 that takes into account the structural sensitivities of certain firms. In my view, the solution to this problem cannot be achieved in isolation and require support for the entry of young and new farmers to be completed complemented with mechanism and support that facilitate orderly transfer of land and farming activity from farmers of, retirement age. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• 2026-02-19 “P-000717/2026 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Fitto on behalf of the European Commission 1. On 16 July 2025, the Commission adopted the proposals for the next multi-annual financial framework, including the proposal for the National and Regional Partnership plans 1 . Instead of 14 separate frameworks, the latter provides for a more integrated approach enhancing synergies and making EU support more effective to address the challenges in a more comprehensive manner, including in Eastern border regions. The plans are required to take into account specific needs and challenges of Eastern border regions, particularly in the areas of security, border management and economic development. Those needs and challenges will have to be identified in the plans in line with Annex VII (e) of the proposal and should be matched by corresponding reforms and investments. The specific situation of Eastern border regions was also recognised with targeted measures as part of the mid-term review of cohesion policy, including a 9.5% increase in pre-financing and a higher 10% cofinancing rate to programmes in these regions. 2. For home affairs policies in Member States bordering Russia and Belarus the proposal sets out additional targeted funding for the benefit of those regions. It is embedded in the allocation key, which includes criteria to address challenges in relation to security at the borders with Russia and Belarus. This results in additional resources for these regions. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025PC0565.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• 2026-01-22 “E-000258/2026 Answer given by Mr Jørgensen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission recognises the importance of addressing territorial disparities and promoting balanced development, including in rural and peripheral areas. The Commission agrees on the value of job creation outside central cities and for that reason EU Cohesion and rural development policies as well as other policies and initiatives 1 are intended to foster job creation throughout the EU. Strengthening regional social economy ecosystems can be a way to stimulate job creation and foster community initiatives that help regions to thrive. Cohesion policy funds have significantly supported housing, transport, and other services to improve quality of life and attractiveness. In addition, the mid-term review Regulation 2 allows Member States to allocate additional funding for affordable housing 3 . The European Affordable Housing Plan 4 aims to tackle housing shortages, including in rural areas. Rural development support under the Common Agriculture Policy is also contributing to improving the quality of life and promotion of economic activity in rural areas, notably under LEADER approach 5 and investments in basic services in rural areas 6 . The proposed EU budget for 2028–2034 will further streamline funding, enabling targeted support for affordable housing, reforms, and broader priorities like social cohesion, climate goals, and demographic change. The objective of banking regulation is to ensure that banks operate their activities in a sound and resilient manner, thus contributing to the stability of the European financial system. Achieving an adequate degree of resilience for banks contribute to their capacity to withstand shocks through the economic cycle, thus contributing in a continuous manner to the financing of the economy. 1 E.g. Social Economy Action Plan; the ‘Talent Booster Mechanism’ set up as an initiative to harness talent in EU’s regions (see COM(2023)32 final of 17.01.2023) (https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/policy/communitiesand-networks/harnessing-talent-platform_en). 2 Regulation (EU) 2025/1914 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 September 2025 amending Regulations (EU) 2021/1058 and (EU) 2021/1056 as regards specific measures to address strategic challenges in the context of the mid-term review, OJ L, 2025/1914, 19.9.2025, https://eurlex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2025/1914/oj/eng. 3 This Mid-term Review Regulation provides flexibility and incentives for Member States to allocate funding for affordable housing beyond the already planned EUR 7.5 billion for energy efficiency and social housing. Furthermore, a new financial instrument model for housing was developed by the Commission and the European Investment Bank, to help Member States to leverage Cohesion policy funding with other resources. 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52025DC1025. 5 https://eu-cap-network.ec.europa.eu/networking/leader/leader-explained_en. 6 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32021R2115&qid=1772195915416.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• 2025-09-08 “P-003465/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission The vision for Food and Agriculture 1 required a more targeted and a simpler Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The new architecture of the CAP simplifies and aligns rules, while preserving the toolbox for farmers, to guarantee food security, including a generational renewal pack and streamlined green architecture as well as a proposal for plans for food availability under the Common market organisation. The multiannual financial framework (MFF) proposals underline the critical role of farmers in ensuring food security and sovereignty across the EU. The vision and the MFF-CAP proposal are fully aligned and there is no need to adapt the vision. The Commission looks forward to constructive discussions with co-legislators to reach the objectives laid down in the MFF and CAP proposals. The proposal sets a minimum of EUR 293.7 billion to be dedicated for income support interventions of the CAP. Member States will supplement this core amount by tapping into the EUR 865 billion National and Regional Partnership Fund, tailoring the CAP to the specific needs of their farmers and rural areas. Additionally, farmers can benefit from the European Competitiveness Fund and the Horizon Programme for research and innovation. Also, in case of market disturbances Member States can benefit from separate funding from the Unity Safety Net (total EUR 900 million per year, 6.3 billion for the period, replacing the current agricultural reserve of EUR 450 million per year). 1 https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/overview-vision-agriculture-food/vision-agriculture-and-food_en.”
  Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1) · Agricultural funding
• 2025-03-06 “E-000958/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is currently working on the next multiannual financial framework (MFF) and intends to present a proposal in July 2025. The Commission communication on the road to the next MFF highlights the importance of food security and nature protection for sustaining Europe’s quality of life and emphasises that a Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) that is fit for purpose must provide targeted support to farmers who need it most, work within planetary boundaries supporting positive environmental and social outcomes through rewards and incentives for ecosystem services and support the right enabling conditions for thriving rural areas. It must become simpler, targeted and find the right balance between incentives, investment and regulation, and ensure that farmers have a fair and sufficient income. The Vision for Agriculture and Food adopted on 19 February 2025 1 provides more details on how the future CAP will address the challenges and needs of the EU agrifood sector and rural areas. 1 https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/overview-vision-agriculture-food/vision-agriculture-and-food_en”
  Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1) · Agricultural funding
• 2025-01-14 “E-000119/2025 Answer given by Ms Roswall on behalf of the European Commission As set out in the Political Guidelines 1 , the Circular Economy Act will help create market demand for secondary materials and a Single Market for waste, notably in relation to critical raw materials. The Circular Economy Act is further detailed in the Competitiveness Compass 2 and in the Clean Industrial Deal 3 . It will serve to catalyse investment in recycling capacity and encourage EU industry to effectively substitute virgin materials and to reduce the landfilling and incineration of used raw materials. Ahead of its expected adoption by end-2026, it will be impact assessed in accordance with the Better Regulation principles 4 , which includes public and stakeholder consultations. It is thus too early to comment on its specific contents. The Commission recognises the importance of effective separate collection and wellfunctioning recycling systems for the supply of secondary raw materials, including bio-based materials, both in terms of their quantity and quality. The Commission further recognises the strong interlinkages between the bioeconomy and the circular economy. As regards to the promotion of bio-based materials, the Commission intends to adopt an updated Bioeconomy Strategy 5 by the end of 2025. This initiative will ‘improve resource efficiency and to tap the significant growth potential of bio-based materials substituting fossil-based materials, and related industries’ 6 and ‘promote the more circular and sustainable production, use and consumption of biological resources’ 7 . The Commission supports the development and testing of innovative solutions in the areas of collection, recycling and novel sustainable materials including biobased ones through dedicated research and innovation funding under Horizon Europe 8 . 1 Political Guidelines for the Commission 2024−2029, https://commission.europa.eu/about/commission-20242029_en 2 https://commission.europa.eu/priorities-2024-2029/competitiveness_en 3 https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/clean-industrial-deal_en 4 https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-making-process/better-regulation_en 5 https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/research-area/environment/bioeconomy/bioeconomy-strategy_en 6 https://commission.europa.eu/topics/eu-competitiveness/clean-industrial-deal_en 7 Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, Commission work programme 2025: Moving forward together: A Bolder, Simpler, Faster Union, COM(2025) 45 final. 8 https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-opencalls/horizon-europe_en”
  Energy (green transition)
• 2024-12-02 “E-002711/2024 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Fitto on behalf of the European Commission In the Political Guidelines for 2024-2029, the Commission’s President proposed a more focused, impactful and simpler budget, and a strengthened cohesion and growth policy with regions at the centre. This policy will be designed in partnership with national, regional and local authorities in order to ensure all citizens have an effective right to stay in the place they call home. The Commission is analysing the situation of the eastern border regions within this context. The eastern border regions in all concerned Member States benefit from substantial cohesion policy funding in the period 2021-2027. Therefore, Member States have room to direct these funds to the areas most affected by Russia’s aggression, addressing new challenges and supporting the reorientation of their economy. For example, the programme ‘European Funds for Eastern Poland 2021-2027 1 ’ assists all Polish regions neighbouring Russia, Belarus and Ukraine in addition to the dedicated Polish programmes for each region. In Finland, the Commission in cooperation with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and local and national authorities is preparing transition strategies for national Eastern and Northern Finland programmes. In the Baltic States, the Commission in cooperation with the World Bank, local and national authorities works to support the reorientation of local businesses and to ensure that the workforce has the necessary skills. Finally, EUR 150 million from the European Regional Development Fund, initially allocated for Interreg programmes with Russia and Belarus, have been reallocated to internal CrossBorder Cooperation programmes to expand cooperation between the EU regions bordering Russia and Belarus and other EU regions. 1 https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/in-your-country/programmes/2021-2027/pl/2021pl16rfpr003”
  Cohesion and rural funding · EU policy on brain drain
• 2024-09-16 “E-001723/2024 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Vestager on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is committed to ensuring that everyone, everywhere in the EU has access to high-speed connectivity. The targets set in the Digital Decade Policy Programme to connect all EU households to gigabit networks and ensure 5G coverage across all populated areas by 2030 1 apply also to the rural areas. According to the second annual report on the State of the Digital Decade 2 , at the end of 2023 very high-capacity networks coverage in the EU’s rural areas reached 56% of households, while 5G coverage amounted to 74%. Reaching the targets may require at least a total investment of EUR 200 billion 3 , including both private and public funding. The Commission supports the deployment of digital infrastructures through numerous funds. The Connecting Europe Facility Digital 4 with a budget of EUR 2 billion supports, inter alia, the deployment of standalone 5G infrastructures for rural communities in sectors like smart farming and border control. This is in particular important in regions bordering Russia in the specific context of its full-scale invasion on Ukraine. The budget allocated to connectivity under the recovery and resilience facility reaches almost EUR 14 billion 5 . With a budget of EUR 2.4 billion the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite programme 6 will also contribute to the coverage of rural areas. Connectivity is also supported under the cohesion funds, e.g. by the European Regional Development Fund (about EUR 2.3 billion 7 ) and through InvestEU 8 . Finally, the White Paper 9 adopted in February 2024 presents the challenges and opportunities Europe faces in the rollout of future secure and resilient connectivity networks and proposes several scenarios to improve the EU regulatory and investment frameworks to facilitate the achievement of EU digital objectives. 1 The Digital Decade Decision (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legalcontent/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=LEGISSUM:4646000) sets out digital targets grouped into four cardinal points, which were first identified in the Digital Compass Communication as key areas for the digital transformation of the EU: digital skills, digital infrastructures, the digitalisation of businesses and the digitalisation of public services, COM(2021) 118 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/en/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52021DC0118 2 https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/news/second-report-state-digital-decade-calls-strengthened-collectiveaction-propel-eus-digital 3 https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/investment-and-funding-needs-digital-decade-connectivitytargets 4 https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/activities/cef-digital 5 https://ec.europa.eu/economy_finance/recovery-and-resiliencescoreboard/assets/thematic_analysis/scoreboard_thematic_analysis_connectivity.pdf 6 https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/eu-space/iris2-secure-connectivity_en 7 https://ec.europa.eu/regional_policy/funding/available-budget_en 8 https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/broadband-public-and-private-funds-financing-broadbanddeployments 9 https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/white-paper-how-master-europes-digital-infrastructure-needs”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Thank you chair. And thank you. Members of the European Court of Auditors, for the presentation of the opinion. It is important to evaluate the Commission's NRP proposal. This proposal has received a lot of criticism from stakeholders, but also from the co-legislators. It puts together many different programmes and due to different nature and implementation of those, it is important to have have an overview on both proposal and its implementation. So thank you for the opinion. Regarding the agriculture, the proposed change is significant. Shifting from a tubular system to one pillar and secures only the direct payments at the same time from the second pillar. Many actions have been funded directly with the EU money, especially those related to to climate, environmental and animal welfare systems. Do you see? I want to ask you if you can see that we could somehow secure these well-functioning systems at the EU level, to be still obligatory for member states with this new structure. In addition, the cohesion policy and agricultural rural development have been put in the same share of money, and member states should decide which one to support. However, however, we must remember that these two policies support each other rather than compete with each other. They have different aims as well. Cohesion policy focuses on growth, jobs and competitiveness, while rural development focuses on the vitality of rural areas. How do you see this issue in the light of EU treaty to support rural areas and as also other than the less developed regions, need support, how to secure balanced and fair distribution of funds? Lastly, I paid attention on the opinions concern on the possible audits on the EU spending. This is obviously an important issue for European Parliament because we are responsible for the discharge procedure. A clear and robust framework is needed for the process so that we can properly evaluate the actions. We should have clear and streamlined milestones and targets for audits, and for the implementation of programmes at the level of regions and final beneficiaries. How would you ensure this? Thank you.”
  Accounting and auditing of EU budget
• “Thank you. President. Commissioner. Strengthening the EU's cap and flexibility therein are the cornerstones of our security of supply. We may not regulate the farmers and the rest of the sector to become unprofitable, and therefore the simplification of the Cap is very welcome. A simplification emphasizing correct allocation and future regulation must be our aim. In addition to reducing administrative burden, it's important that the farmers get more income from the markets. This can only be achieved by strengthening the farmers position in the food supply chain. The current reform goes in the correct direction. I support written contracts, but regulating the content of the contracts on EU level goes too far. The challenges of the food chain differ between countries. Therefore, a one size fits all solution will not work. I'm sure that in the future negotiations, this imbalance will separate the very different member States. I hope we will find a good solution in favour of the farmers in the food supply chain. Thank you.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you, chair, and thanks for the commission. This ongoing situation in the Middle East has already had a significant impact on the European agriculture sector, and we don't know if the situation is getting any better at the moment. It doesn't look good. This situation also highlights the importance of the Commission's fertilizer action plan. One concrete step is to make nutrient cycling more efficient and easier to implement. This requires rethinking the waste framework directive so that treated manure is no longer longer classified as a waste. Rather, it should be understood as a valuable resource within a circular bioeconomy. I'd like to ask how the Commission is taken into account in the development of the new action plan, and how the Commission is going to deal with the increase in the prices of inputs. Uh, are there any support measures, financial assistance, or other mitigating measures planned? Uh, we have to achieve a stronger independency regarding our energy and fertilizers. This situation is increasingly weakening farm profitability, which is truly desperate in the in this profitability situation, when the Commission is even cutting the agricultural subsidies, how does the Commission intend to ensure that unfair trading practices are preventing and that products receive decent produce price on the market? Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “First and foremost, the funding for the future Cap needs to be at least maintained at the level of the current Cap funds in real terms. Secondly, the programmes implemented by the first and second pillars of the current Cap needs to be secured. How it will be done is the discussion of the future negotiations, but it must be ensured as a matter of principle. Rural and sparsely populated areas are already important in terms of security, of supply, overall security, not to mention the food security provided by agriculture. The classification proposed by the Commission, for example, on specific targets for agriculture and rural development, are welcome, but it must be ensured that it is not just transfers from one funding source to another in the same sector. It should be totally new. Money is committed for it. I'd like to ask that. As for Parliament's own internal negotiations, I hope that we will have open and compromise orientated negotiations. It is important that we truly look for consensus within Parliament so we can read a balance balanced compromise. In addition, I am willing to listen openly. All your colleagues. My doors are open to you. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “And thank commission as the head of the promotion policy is more than needed instrumentul for the European agricultural market with strong food X power, and we can keep keep up with that as high quality is organized and very well. Welcome to our products premium products on the market and we also see the market value on that work program for funny sex together with years ago, adopted with agriculture the good base for this week in the same time. I welcome the initiative Manson by the European food campaign in the light of fear of the. Food, for example, Trade agreement, but we must understand the reality is on the consumer habits. The most dominant driver of choices in the supermarket is still price, currently in the and stable financial and the world world situation. Consumers are not willing to pay more than European food and the price in principal, and would like to consume it. More how going to this dilemma promotion should be done in the internal market watch activity. Look for the other possible solutions from the external markets. We must invest for the long standing processes, while the whole foods saying is included. Farmers themselves can do not what we must have actors on marketing for this promotion projects. More attention to be also paid for the permission procedures, which is still bilateral between the country and individual member states, so that is the same level, added value will commission attention on this procedure as if we don't know is the current problem and silence is on the food for promotion. How we can continue to develop the situation in the future. Thank you!”
  Export of EU agri-food products
• “Thank you, Madam President. And unlike in our meeting this July, dear Commissioner, we had time to look at the proposal. And there are a lot of matters that worry us. I am extremely worried about the future of the future of agriculture in Europe and for our food security. And the commission has performed a U-turn. This is a big disappointment. And despite the promising visions that the commission gave us, you have chosen to go down the road of cutting our funds and our vision for the future of agriculture. Sure. Well, that became obsolete within six months. We believe that the structure is extremely complicated there. Um, the NRP and the cap, they're superimposed. And we believe that the strategic dialogue and its recommendations have not been taken into consideration. We need to ensure income for farmers. We are extremely worried how we will secure having our internal market. Financing will be dependent of national budgets. They can be less stable, even less stable than EU funding. How can farmers compete with each other if others finance agriculture more than others? Is this not something that worries you? We cannot talk about common agricultural policy. We can only talk about agricultural policy. And also, with regards to competitiveness, it is essential that European farmers are protected from double standards. However, I would like to thank you for the mention of generational renewal and also some other proposals. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thanks. Thank you, chair, and thanks for commission for the presentation. We all know how inevitable, uh, it is for food security and for the successful agriculture to have a strong pollinator Population. It secures the yield, of course, and not all the plants can be freed as a self-pollination once and not only. Agriculture is the reason why population is decreasing. There is a wide a wide range of reasons and for example, land use change and urbanization needs to be taken into account when we are talking about pollination. And I'd like to know how wide range is it for agriculture, for decreasing populations of pollinators? Um, we all know that there is an urgent need to find a suitable approach which work for the local needs to revitalize the pollinator population. This work needs to be made by very holistic manner. This is why I would like to ask, Commissioner, do we have data which takes into account both the decreased use of pesticides and pollinators population. As we have seen the change in use of pesticides in some EU countries during these years. So does it correlate to the pollinators population? And in addition, do we have already an action plan on the climate change consequences? Some pollinator species are demanding very demanding on their living conditions. So how we can secure the these as for example, truth is more and more often faced faced in Europe due to climate change. Thank you.”
  EU policy on pesticides
• “Thank you. President. Commissioner. It's obvious that the EU must strengthen its competitiveness. And this is a very good goal. This makes us all in agreement. However, we have to change our Markets and increase our independency. But it's also good to think whether we are endangering one of our cornerstones self-sufficiency in top quality food production. European farmers create the best quality, but suffer from low productivity because there are two high standards imposed upon them. Standards are European responsibility. I have to we have to bear our responsibility for our agriculture in every situation. We cannot work in a union of two of double standards, not even with the Mercosur agreement. The Commission has promised to support European farmers and protect our consumers from foodstuffs filled with hormones. But is this all enough? So I so you are going to prevent. A situation where our small farmers are faced with unfair competition and protect European self-sufficiency regarding high quality food.”
  Trade relations with Mercosur
• “Thank you very much, president. I'd like to thank the Commissioner for presenting this long awaited plan for fertilisers, but unfortunately this has all come too late to then deal with the prices. Deal with the crisis that we have here in terms of availability, which is leading then to very high prices for consumers. The proposal we have here may help us in the long term, but it's hardly going to help at the moment. This could then lead to a smaller surface area being cultivated. It's very good that we have biomethane and other sources, but we also need to help with state aid. Horizon Europe for research needs to be looking more closely at agriculture, fertilisers and various types of diversification on the European European market need to be a long term goal goal, and I thank you for that. But what are we going to do with this acute crisis that we're suffering? It's only just started, but 20% of farmers have said that they're going to cultivate a lower surface area. That's why we already should be able to use our crisis reserve for those affected. We need to have a flexible system to make sure that food security is guaranteed. We need a better use of bio energies to then have more independent energy production. Member states should be encouraged by the Commission to use their raw materials rather than being stopped from doing so. We shouldn't then close our eyes to what's happening in the food security sector.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “Yeah. Thank you very much. And thank you to Miss Hennessy for me as well. It was a very interesting presentation. Competitiveness and resilience in farming are important for the whole of Europe. We can't be as dependent on foreign imports as we have been thus far. We have relatively high production costs, and given the current geopolitical situation, we are very vulnerable. We're dependent on Russian fertilizers. That's particularly unfortunate. Our own production is insufficient. Has the commission actually looked for new trading partners? I mean, fertilizer is just one example. Dependency drives prices up. Makes the situation for farmers worse and weakens competitiveness. Now we're hearing about digitalization creating competitiveness. But it would see farmers focusing on urgent matters more. You might have cases where farmers should perhaps delegate an invest in digitization, but it's an investment all the same. This is something that the EU will have to support and would have to support. I'd also like to ask about the threat to our production because of the geopolitical situation. The EU is not doing enough. We are far too dependent on the inputs, and they're costing farmers a lot and more and more, and that's undermining food security.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “Thank you, chair, and thank for the commission for the presentation. I welcome the idea of the NATO credits, especially if it truly brings added value for the better condition for nature, but also better economic for farmers and for forest owners. Like the Commission has stated that this system needs to be transparent and independent, and greenwashing needs to be prevented while going further with the development of the nature credits market. We must ensure that local needs and different conditions are taken into account. The Commission is proposing to take advance on the carbon markets, but how do we ensure that this framework framework is not too heavy for farmers and forest owners to take part? Also, nature credits cannot be defined as easily as carbon credits. So how we ensure that calculation of benefits can be done in a balanced way. Also, as we all know that we are lacking public money for the implementation of nature restoration legislation in different member States. Does the Commission think to cover these expenses with nature credits? In my opinion, this idea is unrealistic as the same time EU legislation sets Restrictions for private forests and landowners. If we develop the nature credit market, it should be additional income for the sector, not something which covers other costs. Thank you.”
  Nature protection and restoration in the EU
• “(10:48:30 – 10:52:47): Thank you, Chair, and thanks to co-rapporteurs as well for your presentation and also for your very good cooperation with this very, very challenging file. And also many thanks for shadow reporters for your inputs and your work. Happy to hear you in this meeting later. The proposal on national and regional partnership plan legislation is really groundbreaking, moving towards a single envelope, which brings together so many different funds from agriculture and fisheries policy to social fund and from cohesion policy to migration. It isn't easy to push different systems under one framework. In general, like colleagues have expressed, the rough report contains many changes. When this proposal came out from Commission, it received so much criticism moving towards a single fund from the different member states and different sectors. This leads to fear of renationalization and possible distortion in the single market. Worry on the continuation of the long-standing and stand-alone sectoral programs like agriculture, cohesion and fisheries policy, but also social aspects and possible confrontation is unavoidable. We have certain earmarks already in Commission's proposal, but those are not seen sufficient. This is why we have included those figures from MFF interim report. We will look forward to the Council outcome on the figures, but hopefully, they will do good decisions and take inspiration from the Parliament's position. On targets, we maintained the Commission proposal for the climate and environmental target at 43%. We also continued to follow closely the negotiations on expenditure tracking and the performance framework. Then more about agri content. First of all, we agreed to transfer certain parts of the NRPP legislation to first to common agriculture policy regulation, secondly, to the common market organization regulation and thirdly, to common fisheries policy. Same kind of transfers are expected in the Council later on. And then about the exact content for the common agricultural policy, the interim report maintains the two-pillar system, and the crisis flexibility mechanism has been established under pillar 2. This brings clarity for the sector.”
  EU cohesion/structural-fund architecture: consolidation vs ring-fenced separate funds
• “Okay. Thank you chair the situation with Eu-morocco Association agreement. Agreement remains very complex and controversial, as we all know. There has been significant legal and political challenges on the regional dispute over self-governing territory of Western Sahara. The objection from last autumn proves that it is difficult to to find a solution to these territorial disputes, which would be in favor of all people involved producers. Consumers, governments and people of Western Sahara region. Uh, what I wanted to inquire about the state of play of this agreement is how we will solve this dispute, find a solution that suits all the people and view them. Make sure these kind of disputes won't raise up again in the future. Another important aspect is to highlight when it comes to agreements is that regardless of the situation we are right now, we need to make sure that the standards are equal to all. Um, we cannot accept double standards that could undermine our local production in Europe. This is something what we need to keep in mind when it comes to association agreement and trade agreements overall. Um, how we ensure the level playing field for European farmers. Thank you.”
  Trade relations with Morocco
• “Thank you, chair, and thank you, Mr. for your presentation. Um. We hear. Yeah. So we all can see that the situation in Middle East has serious impacts. And without urgent EU action, these pressures will accumulate across the value chain, hitting farmers. The the hardest. Unfortunately, it is affecting not only this growing season, but also in the coming growing seasons for years in the worst scenario. Um, my big concern is that energy crisis drives Europe and world into the, uh, into, for example, China's, China's arms, uh, in Iran, war will accelerate the green transition. And that is of course, a good, good thing. But it will also deepen our risky and dangerous dependencies to to some countries. And it seems like Europe is not moving from its current dependencies. It is just changing them to, to another um commission fertilize strategy, which parliament have asked for years and, and years comes far too late and no solution solutions have been proposed for the acute crisis yet, but we are waiting for them. 19th of this this month we will hear something, uh, in a long term, we need more efficient nutrient recycling and alternative fertilizers. Member states should be encouraged to use their own raw, raw materials, not prevent it. It could help rural areas as well. And farmers. And I must say that without self sufficiency and security of supply, there is no independency either. Thank you.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “Thank you chair. And thank you, Minister, for being with us today. And thank you for your presentation as well. Um, the Cyprus presidency comes at a very interesting time, as we just touched in half a year ago. Uh, got the new MFF package. And we have many legislators under negotiation related to agriculture and also new MFF architecture. Um, and I would like to hear more, more your ideas about member states position on national plans and the equality in single market in the future as well. Um, we in Parliament have been very vocal on the farmers well-being, generational renewal and most importantly, uh, the economic vitality of farmers. Um, we will now pay more attention on these issues through Cap in the EU level, but it is even more important that member states take the role to enhance these issues in the national plans. How do you see Member States intentions on this? Regarding the coming proposal this year, I'm sure that you will pay attention on the unfair trading practices. The different member states have different needs from the directive and we must strengthen farmers position. But also the food industry has a challenging position as well. We also should have more discussion on the functioning of the directive, as we are still lacking in information on the possible unfair practices, as actors in the food chain might be too scared to report or don't recognise prohibited practices. How do you think that we could enhance the directive? And how good? How could we strengthen farmers position in the food chain? Lasting on animal welfare. I know that for you, the prevention of animal diseases is one of the core issues for Renew Europe. It is important to invest more on the research and innovation, especially on vaccinations against the fast spread animal diseases. This is the issue of animal welfare, but also the investment for the farm level profitability. Thank you.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you chairman. Thank you to the Commission for this presentation. We have been implementing the new cap period for a couple of years in the member states and the ecological. Environmental ambition are very expensive. They go very far and there are no. Low hanging fruit. I was actually quite surprised to see these positive figures in the presentation. It seems that, um, nature is recovering faster than we think. Um, in the now, the world looks different than during the last programming period. We need to have actions. Um, strategic importance has to be given to food sovereignty. I'm actually very worried about the important strategic objectives. That they will be weakened in the proposal of the commission. That will come in two days. I believe that the perspectives for young farmers will not be very positive. What does the Commission intend to do? I believe in risk management. There have been great trouble in achieving objectives. And when I talk to our voters, when I talk to farmers, they would like to know how it would be possible to actually confront the different risks caused, for example, by climate change. What does the Commission intend to do with regard to risk management? And also it would be essential that best practices move between member states. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)
• “Thank you very much, Madam President. Commissioner. This. Period, I think, got off to a good start. As regards farming, the Strategic Dialogue showed that, um, the Commission is taking the importance of agriculture seriously, but it. Seems now that the Commission wants to make savings on the source of our food security. We need food security. We need to produce our own food. Farmers find themselves in difficult circumstances now and at the eastern border of Europe. Uh, they are under great pressure. We need a stable political Conditions. At a time where free trade and double standards are also putting farmers in an unacceptable situation. So we need to create a stable environment. We need to make use of. All the possibilities. If we are going to ensure that young people still want to take up farming. We must find the right funding. We need to improve training measures. We need to offer prospects for a sustainable future for young farmers. So I very much hope that these will remain priorities in the future. Cap.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you. Chair. Thank you very much for the presentation. In this domain, we've always had to. Take into account the Nordic climate conditions in the South. The different varieties are needed. And now we need more resources in terms of breeding and development, in plant variety development. It's important. It's important for, uh, the, uh, provision of foodstuffs in Europe because of climate change. Because it's important in terms of agricultural crops and agricultural methods have to be adapted. We want sustainability in farming. We need the social development, the environmental dimension and also the economic dimension. And that includes the development of plant varieties. And that means that the varieties must be resilient. The farmers must be able to. Continue to do their work. But we must not forget that the environment must also be protected. And my question is whether this holistic concept plays a role in plant variety development and breeding, whether that is taken into account by you, and how can this be taken into account?”
  Sustainable use of seeds in EU policy
• “Thank you, chair. And thank you, mister, for the presentation. And also for your long and valuable work in Efsa. Uh, on behalf of renew Group as well. Um, Efsa's role is essential on the food safety. And it is important, uh, that the question about food safety and safe farming inputs are, are monitored in the EU level and in our common markets in the coming years. We all know how much climate change will challenge and change. Our food production all over Europe, and climate change will have different effects for for the different parts of the Europe. Like in Nordic countries, the average temperature will raise faster than anywhere in in Europe, and at the same time, our growing season will benefit on on this we will have longer growing season and it brings possibilities but also some. In the same time we will face new pests and plant diseases. How does Efsa's are member States prepared themselves for the upcoming changes and have the availability of good? Tools to offer for farmers That we can secure our food safety. And in addition, as Efsa makes evaluation on the food imported to the EU. How do you see the becoming trade relations, for example, with the Ukraine or Mercosur countries? What is the expected time frame when these countries have adopted EU production standards for imported food products? Thank you.”
  Import of agri-food products in the EU
• “Thank you. Chair. Dear commissioners chairs, dear colleagues, thanks for rapporteurs for your intervention. And thank you, Commissioner, for presenting the the legislation and attending the committee meeting. It is important that there is open and seamless communication between Parliament and the Commission. Uh, with that, we are able to reach consensus on issues the way that the colleague just mentioned to to us, we are on the verge of significant legislation, as this proposal contains contains around 44% of overall MFF budget and the usual structure of MFF will change significantly. Also, the joint procedure of three committees is a big change in terms of of the practices. I truly wish that with the good cooperation, we can reach the balanced outcome, which is also the best for these important policy sectors. It is positive that member states are getting more local flexibility. However, for the single market, it is also important to ensure that EU operators in all member States have the same opportunities to to be competitive. We cannot afford to end up a situation where we have 27 different subsidies systems, where only few companies can benefit because member states have different volumes to support farmers. This is all very important. If we want to have new farmers and young farmers to the sector. As an agri rapporteur, it is particularly important for me to ensure the continuation of a strong funding for agriculture and rural development.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you. I think that there's a real problem that that antimicrobial resistance is actually posing a real problem. It can actually affect over 2 billion people. And I think that we look at the amount of foodstuffs this is affecting. It's terrible. There have been some positive things in the past. For example, we have seen that the amount of antibiotics that are being used is actually been falling over the last couple of years. That's a good thing. But I think it's important that we are able to ensure that an animal can actually be treated with proper medical products when they need it. So we have got to ensure that an animal that is ill can be treated with antibiotics that will be effective. And we've got to at the same time, ensure that this does not lead to, for example, countries like Finland and Sweden where very few antibiotics are being used, that countries like that aren't prevented from using these vaccinations because of the the animal, because of the public health issue. So there's got to be some type of understanding that we're not going to let animals simply suffer. We've we have we have got to be able to treat the animals. But we're using less, much fewer antimicrobial products than in the past. So I think we've got to be able to find a balance. We've also talked about African flu and African swine fever and avian flu, which is actually spreading to other areas. We've got to look at how we can actually counter that. And we we have these are global challenges and they require a global response. How can the EU better monitor or control these animal, these animal diseases? How can we combat this? Is there some way that we can use our trade agreements to try and get on top of this? Thank you.”
  Antimicrobial resistance
• “Thank you Commissioner and it's great that we have representatives of national departments here too. For the Renew group, I'd like to say that it's more important than ever to support agriculture and food security across Europe depends on the farms and getting sustainable healthy foods. It's very worrying that in the new MFF these supports are going to be cut and the market isn't functioning sufficiently well for farmers to earn enough income otherwise. So we must look and would concentrate on active farmers and young farmers are particularly important and the Commission has made that point too. It's important that those who wish to give up the farm have the opportunity to pass it on. In Finland, for example, we had support for those who wanted to give up farming. We can't rely on the food chain being fair. We have to deal with unfair trade practices. And finally, we must not lose sight of the fact that agriculture doesn't concern just farmers. You need other services in rural areas which brings vitality and life and safety to those areas.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, chair. And thank you, Commissioner. I warmly welcome the strategy on generational renewal because it is a vital question for whole European agriculture and the future of it. Targets and proposals are good basis for the actions in both strategy, but also in the Cap proposal. But still we are missing one crucial part money. We may have good aims, but if we don't have actual funding, possibilities are more limited. How? We will ensure that we have sufficient funding for these actions. If there is no funding from the EU and our private funders like banks, are hesitant to give loans for farms investments. We are in serious problems. Um, in addition, what we support new generations taking over the farm. We must keep in mind that when the reality hits hard after a couple of years and designated support, uh, new generations need to have enough tools and advisory services to help them to stay in to stay in farming and keep their farm active. This is one reason more why we should enhance the overall funding on simplification. We have still a lot to do. Uh, have we concluded any, uh, of the simplification packages? This bring more and more uncertainty for EU single market. Are you convinced that simplification negotiations will be finalised in the way that implementation is possible to start Starred on early 2026 could commission do something more as intermediator this issue between Council and Parliament. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, chair, and thank you for the commission, for the presentation. It is clear that we must show our strong support to Ukraine and stand with them in the situation while war is still ongoing. At the same time, the situation is challenging as we must also ensure our European farmers position and economic economic vitality. Also, in the international competition, it is not an easy task, but for achieving a long term solution, which one day will end up for the Ukraine Ukraine membership to the European Union? The balance needs to be found in the bigger picture. Both we, we in the EU and the Ukrainians must start preparing ourselves for the common single market. I would like to ask, Commissioner, do you have any kind of time frame? How long will it take to adapt the Ukrainian production standards in the same level with our European farmers and our European standards. And when can we expect the full implementation as then we can be in the same level maybe, and the balance can be found in this, in this question. Thank you.”
  Agricultural trade: Ukraine imports
• “Thank you, Madam Chair. Thank you to all the panelists. The EU is a big exporter for agricultural products and promotion. Is an important of this free trade agreement worry the agricultural sector very deeply. However, they have offered a great deal of different possibilities as they create new markets. Now it looks that tariffs and tariffs are affecting food exports. How would it be possible to improve the export Of EU products, and how would it be possible to improve the whole export chain? And how would it be possible to receive added value in the market in such a way that. Um, all efforts having to do with, for example, environmental values would create added value.”
  Export of EU agri-food products
• “Well, the situation in the Middle East and the energy crisis have caused problems for farmers. There's a lack of means of production. Prices are going up. I mean, there is a crisis in the food sector which we can no longer ignore. Around 20% of farmers are finding it more difficult to produce food. And if the crisis in fertilisers isn't dealt with, then there are going to be massive problems in the new. In the near term, we need alternative fertilisers for our farmers. The situation in the Middle East is also going to worsen the situation with regard to dependencies. I mean, are we going to end up just more dependent on China? If we move towards a clean energy transition we need genuine solutions here. Please.”
  Use of fertilisers
• “There are Differences in the development of transport infrastructure outside of cross-border connections and the Ten-t core network. The role of local and regional authorities in structural projects is duly acknowledged. The geopolitical situation will continue to be uncertain in the future, and many areas are suffering, um from a dwindling population. This, taken together with a lesser population density is a major challenge. Therefore, we need to regard things from this perspective when it comes to the MFF and recognise the importance of investment in energy, transport and digital connectivity in many areas to the east of the EU. There are major distances to be covered and there is an urgent need to improve infrastructure in future years. We need to fully tap into CEF to ensure the due of flexibility is in place. There was a commission communication on the EU eastern areas. These are areas which are particularly vulnerable to Russian attack. Transport links are urgently needed and therefore I am very glad that the draft addresses the use of dual use transport projects. It's already clear that the network is very compatible with military mobility. Improved highways and bridges are important for both connectivity and for our security and military terms. And once again, I would like to thank the rapporteur for her work.”
  EU transport infrastructure integration
• “Thank you, chair. And thank you all, the shadows, and other colleagues for the valuable comments and evaluation of the draft report. This gives a good pace for the forthcoming negotiations. First of all, it is positive to see that there is a strong will to strengthen the sectorial policies, and I'm sure that we will find a good balanced solution to make it to make it work. I share our shadow's views that we can't afford to put cohesion policy, and agriculture against each other, not here in an RPP level, neither in national drafting of the plan and decision making. These 2 sectors should be seen as 1 1 package supporting each other as beneficiaries are interlinked, our citizens' source of livelihood and regions. I also share colleagues' worries concerning simplification. Will it truly work for farmers? Will there be a reduction of bureaucracy, and how will it work for national authorities? What comes to the overall budget in the end, it is not in parliament's hands. But we all should do our best to influence our national governments to secure that sufficient funding on on these sectors. And what comes to the cap funding, as long as farmers are not getting sufficient income and food chain is unfair, we must secure the subsidies system. More specifically, in the situation when input prices are also high, we need this system more than ever. In the end, we all know that the coming timetable will be tied to conclude the negotiations in time. I truly wish that we all can work in a good spirit and find an outcome, which can have a broad maturity. This is also needed for the trilogue negotiation to show that we have a strong support for the parliament's position. Thank you.”
  Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1) · Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, chairman, and thank you to the Commission. The Chinese tariffs on pig meat are a serious setback for our industry. This has to do with the overproduction in China. And almost 25% of more tariffs to certain member states is unfair. And this is also very difficult for the whole EU in this international context. China is an important export export market for us, and this has a significant effect on our enterprises, our farms. We have other problems as well. And these tariffs pose an important pressure to those countries who are dependent on exports. We export from Finland a lot of products which do not have a lot of demand in Finland, but in China they do have. And robust action here is something that we have to resort to. The commission has to act now that the WTO is not able to act in a robust manner, the EU has to act. We have to support Pigmeat producers and other producers as well. We have to ensure stable and fair markets. And my question to the Commission is what actions are you going to take? Are there alternative export markets? Have they been developed? What kind of measures have you taken to decrease dependency from China? And what are you really going to do to protect the competitiveness of our producers?”
  Trade relations with China
• “Thank you very much, president. The revision of the MFF proposed by the European Commission is far reaching, and that's why we should have an open debate on the matter. In these times of uncertainty, it's important for us to act. And this proposal really opens the door to that. We do need to make sure that we're guaranteeing food security. We've got 10% for rural development. Yes. That's good. But we are still seeing cuts to the farming budget. So we need to have an equitable distribution of the funds. We give something to the farmers with one hand and take it away with the other, and that really makes it much harder for our farmers. And it also excludes regions and local authorities from decision making. So and we shouldn't have.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you for the commission, for the presentation. During this legislation, we have seen a lot of discussion on forests already. For example, the forest monitoring framework proposal, which is under negotiations in this House at the moment. Although I support the idea that we have an accurate EU forest data and that we encourage those member states logging lagging behind in their national inventory efforts, it seems to me that the Commission should have more understanding of the Member States sensitivities in forest issues. How do you see the question, and how could the Commission support more member States in the future instead of proposing restrictive legislation? In addition, we are waiting for the proposal on the 2040 target on climate policy. When can we expect the European Climate Law Review to be published, and how does it affect other climate related regulations, including Lulucf? This legislation is crucial for some member states, especially when, when we have seen achieving the current targets might be challenging. In this light, carbon credit credits also should be taken into account, as they can be seen as an additional source of income for farmers and the forest owners, And together with the carbon credits, there is discussion on the nature credits. And how does DG accuracy the role of nature credits? Can we expect something to be published anytime soon? And what will be the relation to carbon credits? Thank you.”
  Management of EU forests
• “Thank you, Commissioner Hansen. While we haven't had that much time to evaluate fully these proposals, we can't go any details, but we can definitely address the big picture. First of all, 300 billion for agriculture is a loss. That's a that's for sure. Uh, and the way the commission is proposing to manage and fund agriculture and rural development in the EU is not was promised last few years to our farmers. And on top, it's not even what you were promising us these last few weeks. What happened in the cap? Rules are now split between the national and regional partnership plans, but also in its separate legislation. How we can ensure a cap remain a distinct, coherent policy which would strengthen our farmers profitability and food security in Europe, which we are very depending on when we are talking about years competitiveness as a whole. And how could you ensure the same level of support to farmers across the member States, if it will be the capital Deciding who gets the payments. There will be 27 different ways. We can't talk anymore about the common agri policy anymore. Uh, and let me also add that this proposal will seriously undermine our work as a legislature and a committee. And I'd like to hear your opinion about the position of Parliament as a whole in the future. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you, chair. And thank you, Commissioner, on the presentation on these files. In general, it is more than welcome that the position of farmers will be strengthened in the food chain. Farmers need to get the fair price and income, especially in the situation where a level of cap funding will decrease. I also welcome the proposal on the revision of CMO and UTP legislation, but I am disappointed that the Commission is asking for the swift decision making, while at the same time there is no proper impact assessment in place regarding the details of the Of the proposal. I'd like to ask how these changes will affect for the member states, where the procedure producer organisations are not so well known or used in some some member states. Member States where food chain is more based on the co-operatives model co-operatives are recognised, but can those have full impact on proposed changes in CMO? In addition, on the UTP and cross-border actions, how Commission has taken into account the variation of the different implementation in different Member States. How Commission will ensure that the proper implementation of the legislation is taken care of, instead of just broadening the scope of legislation. Cross-border. Thank you.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you. President. The Commission's proposal on the MFF is changing EU policies in a very concerning way in the name of efficiency. The Commission is making a proposal. That will affect the funding for rural areas. It's going to be cut, and the countries are not going to be able to fund the programs over the long term. And in this proposal, the commission is weakening rural development in a significant way, and the rural areas in eastern regions have faced a very difficult situation since the war began in Ukraine. And if they are going to be weakened, then all of Europe will suffer. Those areas must be included in the policy the Commission really must look at those eastern areas and give them allocations.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “President. Commissioner. Energy security and strategic independence are extremely important. The EU is dependent for 60% of its energy on third countries. We're also a long way from our 29% target for renewable fuels in transport by 2030. The EU has to improve its preventative regulation. It mustn't be modified too hastily. We have to make quick progress, however. We need to make quicker production easier. That can be done if money and administrative support is put towards it. We need to create the transition and not have overlapping legislation.”
  Energy (green transition)
• “Thank you chair, and thank you for being here with us today. Um, here. I'm considering the Danish presidency agenda. I do warmly welcome it. You have all the important topics mentioned the Common Agricultural Policy, uh, including rural development and generational renewal, as well as environmental and climate actions. Um. However, the actual implementation by commission is still lacking. Partly from these issues. I'd like to raise generational renewal more into the discussion. What kind of concrete actions are you planning to enhance the speeding up the generational renewal as? One crucial part of this change is actually the access to finance. Uh, do you have any good examples, uh, from Denmark on this? The planned cuts from the Cap budget expected the Commission's proposal on MFF would call against against this objective. Uh, and in addition as a Finn but also former farmer uh bioeconomy is very important for the whole agri agri food sector. It is encouraging to see how high You have a place this on your agenda. It is important to also keep the sector included and not only concentrate on high, high tech medical solutions like the Commission seems to. Seems to think what are the most important farm level actions that you will push further on the bioeconomy agenda? Thank you. Thank you.”
  Agricultural funding
• “Thank you. Chair. Uh, and thank you for your excellent panelists today. Taking part of for this hearing and bringing views of the debate. Uh, both questions women in agriculture, uh, and generational renewal are more than critical for for the continuation of the farming sector and for rural lifestyle, um, and vitality in rural areas, uh, in general, I am a former dairy farmer, and we did our generational renewal almost six years ago in our our farm, and in Finland it is common that also women are equal owner of family farm and with my understanding, women are facing many challenges. The ownership structure in Europe as women are not equal owners. Um, and I'm wondering, how could we how could we enhance this situation? I think it is a crucial part of this, this issue, um, to succeed in agriculture, it requires education and also continuous training later on and all the time, um, I'm concerned about the cuts that are aimed at agricultural education in the sector and also at advising in the field where the challenges are, demands are growing all the time and the demands for professional competence Hence, in terms of climate change and economics, for example, are getting more and more tough. In addition, women play a significant role in farming and rural economy, like like we have seen today. Uh, same time we see more and more deviation between young generations to often young males are leaving, uh, in countryside and females are going to, to cities. Um, how do you see development in your, your countries as inevitable? This will affect for the future of the farming as well. Thank you.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• “Thank you, Mr. President. Commissioner, the Geopolitical situation has put pressure on cohesion, funding and policy. Yet the welfare of Europe's regions, bridging the development gap and subsidiarity are still important. They are in themselves a way of promoting peace and security. Cohesion policy should take into account the needs of different regions in future too. Competitiveness, infrastructure and entrepreneurship in the regions deserve continuing support. Unfortunately, regions within countries continue to grow apart and cohesion policy has a role there too. Russia's war of aggression means that our eastern border regions merit close attention, because cohesion policy measures have an effect on the security of Europe as a whole. Europe will be smarter and more secure if policies take into account the needs of both the energy transition and education. Hence, the role of cohesion policy in the traditional sense should not be significantly weakened. So yes, more efficiency, but no to weakening.”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Of the trade deals, it is very important to keep these two countries integrated EU markets due to their membership candidate status. We do not want Moldova turns towards Russia and we must support Ukraine and its economy, which is dependent on agriculture. Agricultural trade. At the same time, we must ensure that the imported products comply with EU standards and we won't face the situation that we have double standards on the markets. There is no easy solution on this, I know. This is why Prediction is needed. It is good that the vision for Agriculture Commission stated that the gradual integration to single market will be done towards to full membership. Also, it must be ensured that those security clauses are activated at a very low threshold. Um, I'm wondering how the Commission is planning to step forward with the integration of Ukraine. Uh, part of the single market before the actual joining in the EU. We all know that it will happen one day, but how is it? How is it happening in real, real terms? We must also keep in mind that Ukraine is a cornerstone for the food security globally. More information is needed. Indeed. Thank you.”
  Agricultural trade: Ukraine imports
• “So I would like to urge you, please, in the Commission to look at all these factors on the cost side. Thank you. Thank you very much. And thank you for giving us this overview of what is going on in the market. Clearly, there are tensions in the market and quite a number of member states right across the European Union. We can see that there are fluctuations in the markets to a greater or lesser extent. Obviously, producers need to get a fair market price. That's only right. But both in the milk sector, the dairy sector and in the livestock sector, there are problems because inputs are becoming ever more costly. The markets are becoming ever more insecure and the MFF is not actually yet in place. And all the rumours and uncertainties about that are only exacerbating existing concerns. We need to have minimum standards in place which will ensure that the farmers know how to plan. We've also got to tackle things like unfair competition and fair. Market practices because this is something which is again, problematic in the dairy sector in a number of our countries. It can also have an impact on prices. So there are many factors which play into this problematic situation, but the long and the short of it is that we need from the Commission are sustainable and long term solution.”
  EU policy on farmer–buyer relations in the agri-food supply chain
• “Thank you chair. And thank you. Members of the European Court of Auditors, for the presentation of the opinion. It is important to evaluate the Commission's NRP proposal. This proposal has received a lot of criticism from stakeholders, but also from the co-legislators. It puts together many different programmes and due to different nature and implementation of those, it is important to have have an overview on both proposal and its implementation. So thank you for the opinion. Regarding the agriculture, the proposed change is significant. Shifting from a tubular system to one pillar and secures only the direct payments at the same time from the second pillar. Many actions have been funded directly with the EU money, especially those related to to climate, environmental and animal welfare systems. Do you see? I want to ask you if you can see that we could somehow secure these well-functioning systems at the EU level, to be still obligatory for member states with this new structure. In addition, the cohesion policy and agricultural rural development have been put in the same share of money, and member states should decide which one to support. However, however, we must remember that these two policies support each other rather than compete with each other. They have different aims as well. Cohesion policy focuses on growth, jobs and competitiveness, while rural development focuses on the vitality of rural areas. How do you see this issue in the light of EU treaty to support rural areas and as also other than the less developed regions, need support, how to secure balanced and fair distribution of funds? Lastly, I paid attention on the opinions concern on the possible audits on the EU spending. This is obviously an important issue for European Parliament because we are responsible for the discharge procedure. A clear and robust framework is needed for the process so that we can properly evaluate the actions. We should have clear and streamlined milestones and targets for audits, and for the implementation of programmes at the level of regions and final beneficiaries. How would you ensure this? Thank you.”
  EU cohesion/structural-fund architecture: consolidation vs ring-fenced separate funds
• “Thank you. Chair. As we all know, hemp offers a strong opportunity to grow more sustainably divine while opening many versatile use possibilities. It's diverse and workable nature create new sources of income across several sectors like textiles, construction, biofuels, and and food, for example, because every part of the plant can be used. Hemp improves resource efficiency and strengthens competitiveness while supporting biodiversity. This is particularly relevant now as Europe places increasing emphasis on self-sufficiency and strategic autonomy. However, development is constrained by legislative barriers and differences in regulation between different member states, which directly affects farmers. More harmonised regulation would be essential for farmers to fully benefit from the economic and sustainable growth opportunities that hemp provides. New innovations and new varieties should be incentivised on the sector as well, and I'd like to ask whether the commission intends to simplify and harmonise legislation concerning hemp cultivation across member states, and what concrete measures it plans to take to promote hemp cultivation in Europe. Thank you.”
  Agriculture (green)