Poll: 95 Percent of Europeans Consider Agriculture Essential for Europe's Future

Brussels, September 22 (KUNA) -- A European survey conducted today on Tuesday revealed that 95 percent of EU citizens consider agriculture and rural areas vital to Europe’s future, while 93 percent view ensuring stable food supplies for the Union as a high priority. The findings come from a survey carried out by the European Commission through Eurobarometer, which also noted that 70 percent of Europeans believe the Common Agricultural Policy benefits all EU citizens. It further indicated that 93 percent acknowledge agriculture’s role in guaranteeing stable food supplies, 92 percent recognize its contribution to providing affordable food prices and the sustainable management of natural resources, and 91 percent affirmed its role in strengthening the position of farmers within the food supply chain. The survey added that food quality and origin are the most influential factors in purchasing decisions, with nearly 80 percent of Europeans considering the EU origin of products an important or very important factor, and around 90 percent placing importance on products with short supply chains that adhere to high standards for environmental protection and animal welfare. It also confirmed that European trade agreements are generally viewed positively for their role in diversifying markets and supply sources and boosting exports of agricultural and food products, with citizens expecting the maintenance of high standards for food, the environment, and animal welfare. (End) A.R.N. / A.M.S.