Ukraine and Sweden ink Memorandum on expanding cooperation in agriculture and food sector

Vitalii Koval, Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, and Peter Kullgren, Minister for Rural Affairs of the Kingdom of Sweden, have signed a memorandum of cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, food industry and irrigation.

"Recently, a historic step has been taken in Stockholm - a Buy Ukrainian Products initiative was officially presented. And today in Brussels, I signed a Memorandum of Cooperation in Agriculture, Fisheries, Food and Irrigation with the Minister for Rural Affairs of the Kingdom of Sweden, Peter Kullgren," said Vitalii Koval.

The Memorandum will be valid for 3 years with automatic prolongation for another 3 years. The document opens up new opportunities for cooperation in the agricultural and food sectors between Ukraine and Sweden.

Key areas of cooperation include:

• Restoration and reconstruction of agricultural value chains and infrastructure in Ukraine through joint projects.
• Assistance in facilitating commercial, scientific and technological contacts in agriculture, fisheries, food industry and irrigation between government, research institutions and other organisations.
• Harmonisation of Ukrainian legislation in agriculture and fisheries with EU requirements.
• Cooperation at the level of businesses and associations in the grain industry, horticulture, poultry, meat and dairy, fish processing, niche crops, etc.
• Cooperation in the production and development of the food industry.
• Transfer of knowledge and experience in the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable agriculture.

"Sweden has once again proved to be a reliable friend of Ukraine. I believe that our partnership will be beneficial for the development of the agricultural sector of the two countries," said Vitalii Koval.