site.btaAgriculture Minister, French Ambassador Discuss Future of EU Common Agricultural Policy and Bilateral Cooperation

Agriculture and Food Minister Georgi Tahov and French Ambassador to Bulgaria Marie Dumoulin discussed the future of the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) after 2027, trade agreements in the agricultural sector, and opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation in agriculture, the Ministry said on Tuesday.

Tahov emphasized that Bulgaria and France share similar positions on key issues related to the future CAP. “We believe that the policy should remain strong, autonomous, with a clear budget and with instruments in place to support farmers,” he said.

He recalled that Bulgaria and France are among 17 EU Member States that signed a joint declaration in October to ensure the CAP remains adequately funded and effective after 2027. “This is the position Bulgaria will defend, a balanced and fair policy based on two pillars, aimed at providing real support to farmers, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable rural development,” Tahov added.

Ambassador Dumoulin expressed France’s readiness to continue active dialogue with Bulgaria within European policies and bilateral relations. “Our country highly values its cooperation with Bulgaria in agriculture. I believe we have potential to further develop our partnership, supporting sustainable agriculture and exchanging best practices and scientific achievements,” she said, adding that France will continue to advocate for a balance between environmental goals and farmers’ economic viability under the future CAP.

The officials also discussed international trade agreements, including the EU-Mercosur Agreement. Tahov stressed that Bulgaria supports the introduction of protective mechanisms in EU legislation to safeguard farmers’ interests and mitigate potential risks for the agricultural sector.

Opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation in scientific research, climate policy, and crisis management in agriculture were also examined. As an example of successful collaboration, Tahov cited the participation of Bulgarian representatives in the 34th Sommet de L'elevage (Livestock Summit) in Clermont-Ferrand, showcasing scientific developments and best practices in sustainable livestock farming.