BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 14. European Union currently continues the implementation of several programs in Central Asian countries, a European Commission Spokesperson told Trend.
In Uzbekistan, the EU’s first Sector Budget Support in the area of Agriculture, initiated in 2020, is the cornerstone of the EU’s involvement in the sector.
“It aims to assist the Government of Uzbekistan in strengthening selected agri-food public services to increase farm incomes and rural employment opportunities, enhance food security and ensure sustainable use of natural resources. The development of a smart, eco-friendly agri-food sector will also be a priority area of our cooperation in the coming years (2021-2027),” the official said.
In Tajikistan the ongoing rural development program provides support to agricultural development with a total of EUR 110 million to the sector, as follows:
- boost added value of agricultural production;
- improve management of natural resources;
- promote sustainable and efficient use of water.
“The project emphasizes value chain development, support to smallholder production, export promotion, capacity strengthening for institutions in the agriculture and water sector, focussing geographically on the Zarafshan and Vakhsh valleys,” the spokesperson added.
In Kyrgyzstan, the EU is continuing the implementation of our Integrated Rural Development Programme.
“It aims to reduce poverty, especially among women, children, and the most vulnerable segments of the population, through increasing social and economic opportunities and the promotion of income-generating activities in rural communities. The main income-generating activities supported are the production and commercialization of fruit and vegetables, and the development of sustainable community-based ecotourism,” the official said.