Representatives of the Rural Development Network of North Macedonia, which implements USAID’s Community Development Program, attended the Agricultural Policy Forum 2021 held in Serbia on October 20 and 21 on the topic of a green agenda for the Western Balkans.
The Program, its concept, goals, and expected impact were presented at the Forum as a successful approach that can contribute to the sustainable development of rural areas. Additionally, it was pointed out that this model can be replicated in other countries in the Western Balkans and scaled up.
The annual forum is attended by more than 150 participants from the Western Balkans and the European Union, including representatives of state institutions, universities, the private sector, international organizations, civil society organizations, farmers, and chambers of commerce. The event was organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republic of Serbia and the regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG) in Southeastern Europe.
The participants summarized the key results and recommendations that were highlighted in four working groups on the topics of rural tourism development, wine production, LEADER approach, and Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS).
The green agenda as the main topic of the forum is essential for the countries of the Western Balkans. Its implementation means strengthening the position of farmers in the food supply chain and increasing their incomes, as well as increasing competitiveness, production of nutritious and healthy food, the region’s attractiveness for investment and tourism, economic opportunities, and employment opportunities.
This activity is part of the Community Development Program, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
This article is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents are the responsibility of the Rural Development Network of North Macedonia and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) or the United States Government.