Agriculture must continue in all regions of Europe

In the discussions during the visit Finland presented its views relating to the review of the common agricultural policy. According to Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Sirkka-Liisa Anttila, who hosted the visit, Finland considers that a strong and efficient agricultural policy should continue so that we can offer safe and healthy foodstuffs to the consumers at a reasonable price while ensuring a fair income level to the producers, also in the future.

The most significant issues for Finland concern the natural handicap payments for the less-favoured areas and the future of national aids. ” Mr Cioloş's views on the future reform are well thought out and constructive, as well as very much in line with the Finnish views. I believe that together with the Commission we will find appropriate solutions to the special problems we have in Finland”, Minister Anttila said.

On his visit to Finland on 13-15 July Commissioner Cioloş got acquainted with Finnish agricultural production and farmers when visiting both a dairy and beef farm in the Joensuu region. Besides the official negotiations Mr Cioloş met representatives of the producer organisations and of the Grand Committee and Agriculture and Forestry Committee of the Finnish Parliament.

Further information at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry:

Kari Valonen, Ministerial Adviser, tel. +358 (0)9 160 52428, +358 (0)40 751 8407