MP Ferhat speaks at the 1st Rhodope Agricultural Development Conference
Özgür Ferhat, Member of Parliament for the Rhodope New Left Party, addressed key agricultural issues in the region during his speech at the 1st Rhodope Agricultural Development Conference. His speech highlighted the challenges faced by farmers and proposed solutions to these pressing problems.
Drought and Climate Crisis Solutions
MP Ferhat emphasized the threats posed by drought and the climate crisis to agriculture in the Rhodope region:
“In recent years, drought has made it increasingly difficult for our farmers to work their fields and achieve productive yields. However, no long-term solutions have been implemented. Our rivers flow into the sea without being utilized. By building small dams and water collection reservoirs, we can mitigate this issue in the short term,” he said. He also underlined that the construction of the Yassikoy Dam could irrigate 300,000 acres of farmland, providing a significant boost to agricultural productivity.
Reforms Needed in Agricultural Institutions
Ferhat criticized the outdated operational systems of OPEKEPE and ELGA, key agricultural institutions:
“For the past 25 years, the Agricultural Compensation Organization (ELGA) has been operating under the same laws, which are no longer suited to today’s conditions. Urgent reforms are needed in the functioning of these institutions.”
Tobacco and Cherry Production
Addressing the importance of tobacco in the region, Ferhat pointed out its value beyond cigarette production, including its use in the pharmaceutical and fragrance industries:
“Although our tobacco is only used in blends at a rate of 3%, it holds significant value. In 2023, tobacco production in the region dropped to 20,000 acres, a sharp decline. It is essential to include tobacco in the revised Common Agricultural Policies (CAP); otherwise, the future of this valuable product is at risk.”
He also stressed the importance of cherry production for the local economy, noting that drought has severely impacted the crop and called for the development of new action plans.
Inclusion in Reconstruction Projects
Ferhat argued that the Rhodope region must be included in ongoing reconstruction projects:
“The reconstruction projects announced for the Evros region do not cover Rhodope. Including Rhodope in these projects is critical for the region’s development and future.”
Unemployment and Migration Issues
Highlighting the issue of unemployment, Ferhat noted that thousands of residents, including farmers and livestock breeders, have migrated to Europe in search of better living conditions:
“To address this problem, we need regional development projects that can create sustainable economic opportunities for our people.”
In closing, MP Ferhat reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the problems of the Rhodope community and extended greetings from New Left Party leader Alexis Haritsis to all participants.
