Wigemark to BiH authorities: Adopt agricultural strategy

Head of the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Lars Gunnar Wigemark held a meeting with 12 representatives of agricultural associations from eight EU member states, who are staying in Sarajevo for a three-day visit.

After the meeting, Wigemark addressed the media at a press conference, stating that this is an important visit undertaken with the aim of highlighting a better understanding of the situation in rural areas, in order to provide better assistance to agricultural producers.

He said that the EU delegation met with 2,000 different farmers in BiH at the beginning of the year, and they also visited 10-12 agricultural centers.

- Agriculture is one of the most effective sectors, and it will be positively affected - Wigemark said - adding that it is a very important item on BiH's path to candidate status in the EU.

- Through meetings with colleagues from the EU, it was concluded that farmers will gain a better understanding of the processes and opportunities to be seized. Of course, there will also be discussions about support programs intended for farmers in EU member states - but also for countries that have candidate status - Wigemark assessed.

- BiH is not yet a candidate, but that is not a reason or an obstacle to not start preparing for future activities in this regard. We know from experience that a lot of information circulates in the public about what integration into the EU agricultural sector entails, so this is a great opportunity to hear exactly what it all entails - Wigemark said.

He believes that his colleagues from the EU will be able to share experiences with agricultural producers and their associations.

- Better organization is needed, and in the future, I hope they will respond to the processes in a more coherent way, and that a state strategy in the agricultural sector will be adopted. I urge the authorities to work on this, and there is no reason to wait - said the head of the EU delegation in BiH.

After him, Tajana Radić from the Croatian Chamber of Agriculture spoke, stating that she hopes BiH will join the EU as soon as possible and participate in negotiations on agricultural policy.

"It is in our interest for BiH to join the EU and engage in negotiations. Learn everything you can, and there will be many questions and rules. It is not easy to be part of the EU - but together we will be stronger," she said.

After her, Emanuela Mikosz from Poland, representing the Association of Landowners in the EU, assessed that BiH has made significant progress compared to her first visit here 12 years ago.

- The EU is undergoing agricultural reform. We know all the challenges, which we will share with you. I come from a country that is one of the most agriculturally developed countries. We are at your disposal - we will help you in every possible way - she said at the end of her address.

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