Moldova has good prospects in agriculture, but faces major irrigation-related problems and in the animal-breeding sector. These problems must be solved with the assistance of the authorities, said Romanian expert in agriculture Cornel Costeliuc, one of the 10 experts from the EU member states who are in Moldova on a fact-finding visit, IPN reports.
”I represent the association of cattle breeders of Suceava county. We established cooperation relations with those from Moldova a long time ago. We are delighted at what we found here. I think you took important steps both in conventional agriculture and in the ecological one. But Moldova faces problems in the field of irrigation. The Government should become involved as the drought affects you yearly,” said the Romanian expert.
Cornel Costeliuc also said the European experts consider that the Moldovans must develop the sector of traditional and ecological products. “There are areas where you should work more. I mean the animal-breeding sector. You do not meet the demand for milk, milk products and meat from the local production. The Government should devote increased attention. However, I think you are coming closer to the EU standards,” stated the expert.
The 10 experts from Romania, Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria arrived in Moldova within the project “Agriculture and Rural Development Policies: Development Standards” that is financed by East East Beyond Borders Program of Soros Foundation Moldova. Attending a roundtable meeting held within the project, acting Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Vasile Bumacov said the Moldovan farmers need the experience of those who covered the European integration path and of those who benefited from European funds to modernize agriculture.
EEBB program director Ana Coretski stated that several years ago a Russian journalist said the Moldovans do not realize what richness they have under their feet, referring to the soil. She voiced hope that the experience exchange between farmers will be beneficial and will lead to the formulation of policies that will help Moldova to fully realize its agricultural potential.
According to official data, the Moldovan agriculture accounts for 15% of the GDP and for 40% of the exports, while 27% of the working population is involved in agriculture.
