Belgrade, Serbia | 30 September 2026
Ministers of Agriculture and Heads of Delegations from South East Europe gathered in Belgrade for the 20th Annual Working Meeting, reaffirming their commitment to stronger regional cooperation, European integration, resilient food systems and sustainable rural development.
The meeting, organised within the framework of the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG), brought together representatives from the countries of South East Europe, EU Member States participating as SWG observers, the European Commission and international organisations. Discussions focused on key priorities for the region, including support for farmers and rural communities, climate resilience, knowledge and innovation, opportunities for young people, and preparedness for future challenges.
CIHEAM Bari took part in this important regional dialogue, represented by Fabrizio Contento, Head of the South-Eastern Europe Geographical Unit, who delivered the official address on behalf of CIHEAM Bari.
In his intervention, Fabrizio Contento reaffirmed CIHEAM’s strong partnership with the SWG and its commitment to supporting South East Europe through technical cooperation, policy dialogue, institutional capacity building and long-term partnerships, with a particular focus on sustainable agrifood transformation and the European integration process.
CIHEAM Bari is actively working with partners across the region through initiatives supporting EU accession, agricultural policy alignment, sustainable food production, biodiversity conservation and institutional strengthening.
As highlighted during the meeting, European integration is not only about harmonising legislation: it is also about strengthening institutions, investing in people and building trust among countries that share common challenges and aspirations.
The meeting was hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of the Republic of Serbia, which assumed the Presidency of the SWG Assembly.
CIHEAM Bari looks forward to continuing to work closely with the SWG and its members to strengthen regional cooperation and contribute to a more sustainable, resilient and competitive agri-food sector in South East Europe.
