BRUSSELS

Food security is a key component of the EU's overall security and sovereignty, EU agriculture ministers said Wednesday, pledging to "rigorously defend the bloc's interests in farming and food production amid growing global uncertainty."

The statement came after an extraordinary meeting of EU agriculture ministers convened by the European Commission and the Greek Cypriot Administration's Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou in Brussels.

Ministers underlined that agriculture is "crucial for European sovereignty and that the EU agri-food sector plays a central role in the bloc’s competitiveness," providing millions of jobs and significant added value.

Discussions focused on challenges facing farmers and the agri-food sector, particularly heightened volatility in global markets, geopolitical uncertainty and rising production costs.

Ministers also exchanged views on expectations for 2026 and the need to preserve a strong competitive position for European farmers.

Acknowledging the urgency felt across the sector, ministers said the EU is taking action to ease pressures on farmers while creating new opportunities to strengthen food security and resilience.

The outcomes of the meeting centered on several key areas, including securing Common Agricultural Policy support within the post-2027 Multiannual Financial Framework, improving the availability and affordability of fertilizers, strengthening domestic production and reducing external dependencies.

Ministers also discussed boosting global competitiveness by ensuring a level playing field and reciprocity in trade, as well as further simplifying rules to benefit farmers.

"The future of farming and a competitive agrifood sector in Europe therefore needs to be ensured. The EU stands ready to act where needed, in the short and longer term. It will continue to rigorously defend its interests in the area of farming and food security and turn the Vision for agriculture and food into reality," the statement said.