Image: Minagro
Ukraine and the Kingdom of Sweden have taken a significant step toward enhancing bilateral collaboration in the agricultural, fisheries and food sectors by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation. The agreement was formalized by Ukraine’s Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, Vitaliy Koval, and Sweden’s Minister for Rural Affairs, Peter Kullgren, during an official ceremony in Brussels.
This memorandum, which will remain in effect for an initial period of three years with an automatic renewal clause for another three years, marks a pivotal moment in the growing partnership between the two nations. It builds upon recent diplomatic progress, including the official launch of the "Buy Ukrainian Products" initiative in Stockholm.
“This is a historic step,” stated Minister Vitaliy Koval. “Sweden has once again proven that it is a reliable friend of Ukraine. I am confident that our partnership will benefit the development of the agricultural sector in both countries.”
The agreement outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration across several key areas:
Restoration and Reconstruction: Joint projects will focus on rebuilding Ukraine’s agricultural value chains and infrastructure, significantly impacted by ongoing challenges.
Commercial, Scientific, and Technological Cooperation: The memorandum aims to facilitate stronger connections between governmental, research, and private institutions in both countries, particularly in agriculture, fisheries, food production, and irrigation.
EU Harmonisation: One of the document’s strategic objectives is to align Ukrainian agricultural and fisheries legislation with European Union standards, promoting greater integration and cooperation with EU markets.
Sector-Specific Collaboration: Targeted partnerships will be encouraged in industries such as grain production, horticulture, poultry and livestock farming, dairy processing, fish processing, and niche crop cultivation.
Food Industry Development: The agreement supports joint efforts in the production and advancement of modern, competitive, and sustainable food industry practices.
Sustainable Agriculture: Sweden will assist Ukraine by sharing its expertise in sustainable and environmentally friendly farming techniques.
Minister Peter Kullgren underscored the importance of the collaboration, noting the shared values and mutual benefits the partnership will bring to both nations.
This memorandum serves not only as a foundation for tangible cooperation but also as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Ukraine and Sweden, reinforcing their commitment to innovation, resilience, and sustainability in agriculture and food production.
