Margaritis Schoinas appeared reassuring to producers regarding the changes currently underway in the agricultural sector.
Specifically, during a political event organized by the DEEP New Democracy in Chalkidiki, the minister emphasized the discussions taking place at the European level regarding the new agricultural policy. As he said, the government does not intend to passively watch developments in Brussels, but to demand better terms for Greek producers.
“Our country will have over 20 billion euros for Greek farmers over the next six years,” he noted.
The Ministry’s “three key projects”
Margaritis Schinas also outlined the Ministry of Rural Development’s key priorities for the coming period. As he said, the focus is on restoring the reliability of payments, negotiating the new CAP, and increasing investments in the primary sector.
He made special mention of the changes being promoted in the payment system. He acknowledged that there may be transitional difficulties, but emphasized that the political leadership will ensure the smooth implementation of the changes.
“You have nothing to fear,” he said, addressing the farmers, adding that “the changes are being made on the fly.”
At the same time, he noted that Greek agriculture cannot be treated by the same criteria that apply to Northern European countries. He called for greater national flexibility and less bureaucracy in European Union decisions, with an emphasis on the specific characteristics of Mediterranean crops.
Margaritis Schinas: Criticism of populism and “easy solutions”
The minister further argued that the country must shift from a model of ongoing subsidies to one that increases the added value of Greek products and boosts producers’ income.
Concluding his remarks, he made clear jabs at those who invest politically in empty promises and the logic of slogans.
“Progress does not come with ‘magic wands,’ but with seriousness, planning, and consistency,” he noted.
