In the presence of Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Vitaly Koval, the Italian Ambassador to Ukraine, Carlo Formosa, today signed the agreement to launch the 9 million euro 'Pro.UKR' project with the International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies of Bari (CIHEAM), to promote sustainable agricultural development and food security in rural areas of the Odessa Region.
The project, which will strengthen the production, technical and organisational capacities of local farmers, breeders and cooperatives, will be implemented entirely in Odessa, a city for which Italy has taken on the patronage for reconstruction, testifying to Italy's commitment to one of the areas most severely affected by the conflict. The programme, developed jointly with the Ukrainian Ministry of Agriculture and Odessa Region technicians, will include the distribution of tools for agricultural and livestock production, the introduction of new technologies, and sustainable irrigation systems.
"The agri-food sector represents a key component for Ukraine's economic recovery, especially in rural areas where small businesses have been particularly affected by the conflict. Italy confirms its support with a concrete project aimed at strengthening food security and promoting sustainable agricultural development," said Formosa.
The 'Pro.UKR' programme is part of a broader framework of Italian support for the recovery of Ukraine and in particular the Odessa Region, with the aim of fostering the country's economic and social resilience in the current difficult context.
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