During the press conference on February 21, 2024 in Paris, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal highlighted the importance of agriculture by placing it “among the fundamental interests” of the nation. He stressed that the current agricultural orientation bill would clearly recognize the objective of agricultural and food sovereignty. This decision marks a major turning point in the recognition of the importance of this sector for France.
The Minister of Agriculture, Marc Fesneau, also insisted on the urgency of shortening procedures, particularly with regard to the construction of water reservoirs, in order to effectively respond to the needs of farmers. The government has already taken several measures to support the agricultural sector in crisis, in particular by paying millions of euros in aid to farmers affected by various problems such as MHE disease or storms.
At the same time, projects are underway to strengthen the Egalim laws, guarantee a more stable income for farmers, improve the retirement conditions of farmers and facilitate the hiring of foreign seasonal workers. This stated desire demonstrates the government’s commitment to sovereign and sustainable agriculture, anchored at the heart of national issues.
This speech by Gabriel Attal and the actions undertaken by the government underline the crucial importance of supporting and promoting the agricultural sector in a context of crisis and transition towards more resilient and environmentally friendly agriculture.