site.btaBulgarian Deputy Agriculture Minister Sees Considerable Potential for Cooperation with Malta in Fisheries, Aquaculture

There is considerable potential for cooperation with Malta in the areas of fisheries and aquaculture, Bulgaria’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food, Stefan Burdzhev, said during a meeting with Malta’s Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, Anton Refalo, in Valletta. The visit aimed to deepen bilateral collaboration and promote the exchange of experience and best practices, Burdzhev’s Ministry said in a press release on Thursday. “It is important for us that there is understanding and a spirit of partnership in discussions on the shared parameters and direction of the EU’s common fisheries and aquaculture policy,” Burdzhev noted.

Special emphasis was laid on the European Commission’s proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034. The sides agreed on the importance of easing eligibility criteria in the next programming period and reducing administrative burdens for beneficiaries.

The discussion also focused on the significance of the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund in promoting the development of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. The talks also covered the main priorities of the Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Programme for 2021-2027 and the progress made in its implementation.

Malta outlined its achievements in implementing the EU Regulation aimed at preventing, deterring, and eliminating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. While challenges remain, significant progress has been made. Minister Refalo highlighted the availability of a national fund to support young fishermen, onboard vessel investments, and campaigns to boost fish and fish product consumption.

During the visit, the Bulgarian delegation toured Aquatic Resources Malta, which focuses on applied research, innovation, and stakeholder engagement in aquaculture.

Executive Agency for Fisheries and Aquaculture (EAFA) Executive Director Nikolay Georgiev said that Bulgaria has significant experience in cultivating black mussels in the Black Sea and farming trout in freshwater basins. The Bulgarian delegation extended an invitation to their Maltese counterparts to visit Bulgaria for further experience exchange.

The Managing Authority of the Maritime and Fisheries Programme 2021–2027 said that control activities have been a funding priority across all three programming periods. Projects include the acquisition of patrol vessels and unmanned aerial vehicles for various terrains. A particular focus remains on small-scale coastal fisheries. The Bulgarian side said that starting next year, EAFA will introduce satellite monitoring for boats between 9 and 12 meters in length and expressed interest in learning from Malta’s experience, especially regarding best practices in weighing and labeling catches from small-scale fishing operations.