It is a great honour for me to be invited to attend and address the 6th Flower Festival of Kitromilia, which is organised by the Independent Group "Epidrasi" in the beautiful village of Episkopi Limassol. Episkopi, built at the foot of ancient Kourion, with a fertile plain unfolding to the south, near the western bank of the river Kouris, dominates the bay of Kourion. Various species, mainly citrus fruits and vines, are traditionally cultivated in the area.
Today's event is therefore dedicated to citronella and its flowers, which are known for their rich fragrance due to the composition of their essential oils. Citronella is not systematically cultivated for commercial purposes, but it has been cultivated since ancient times as an ornamental tree. In Cyprus it is mainly used as a rootstock for all other citrus species. However, the beauty of the tree's shape and the bright orange fruits make it ideal for planting trees in streets and parks. When not in flower, it intoxicates passers-by with its fragrance. In addition, we are all familiar with the products made from the fruits and flowers of the citronella, such as sweets and flower water.
Friends,
Although the agricultural sector represents, in terms of numbers, a small part of the country's Gross National Product, it nevertheless has a significant impact on the other sectors of the economy, thus multiplying its value. It helps to maintain the social fabric of rural areas and to reduce urbanisation and desertification. Moreover, agricultural activity protects and preserves the natural environment and landscape and contributes to the mitigation of climate change.
As conditions have developed in recent years, Cypriot agriculture faces many challenges. The Government, and in particular the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, taking into account these facts, aims to continue its multifaceted action and to make every effort to improve the competitiveness of the agricultural sector. In order to support agricultural activity and sustainable rural development, the role of the Common Agricultural Policy Strategic Plan 2023-2027, which provides for a total funding of €454 million, is expected to be decisive. The Strategic Plan includes measures and schemes that promote the sustainability and competitiveness of farmers while, at the same time, aiming at mitigating environmental problems and addressing climate change.
At the same time, in line with EU policies, the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment attaches particular importance to the extension of actions to reorganise and improve the functioning of the agricultural sector. Examples are the reform of the sector of risk management in agricultural production, as well as the legislative regulations to tackle Unfair Commercial Practices in the agri-food supply chain and the improvement of the functioning of the Farmers' Markets for the benefit of our farmers.
We are determined to breathe new life into the agricultural sector, to chart a new course that responds to the needs and addresses the real problems of the rural world.
We are determined to breathe new life into the agricultural sector, to chart a new course that responds to the needs and addresses the real problems of the rural world. Our aim is to support rural communities so that they remain vibrant centres of economic, social and cultural development, combining agriculture, tourism and the protection of our natural environment.
Friends,
In closing this brief greeting, I would like to express my congratulations to the Independent Group "Epidrasi" for the organisation of this beautiful festival that tends to become an institution. Through the festival, one can come into contact with the products of the citronella blossoms, but also be informed about social, agricultural and other issues. I wish everyone a beautiful and pleasant day.
Note.
(MGS)
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