A significant meeting took place in Bari with Mr. Luigi Cavestro from the International Center for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM).

The primary focus of the discussion was the launch of the project «Support Program for the Recovery of the Economic Potential of Ukraine's Agrifood Sector. Pro.UKR», which will be implemented in the Odesa region with the support of AICS and CIHEAM.

This project has been developed by Italian experts in collaboration with specialists from the Odesa region and the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, covering the Berezivka, Rozdilna, and Odesa districts.

The project aims to support small and medium agribusinesses, strengthen the position of Ukrainian agrifood products in international markets by providing technological support and enhancing quality to meet European standards. The project will also focus on livestock development and irrigation systems in the Odesa region.

A key idea of the project is to provide training and create cooperatives for processing agricultural products based on small agribusinesses, establishing stable links between Ukrainian and Italian markets.

Within the framework of this joint project, CIHEAM plans to invest over 9 million euros in the agro-industry of Odesa.

It is worth noting that the Italian Ambassador to Ukraine, Carlo Formosa, signed an agreement with CIHEAM to launch this project at the end of March.

The «Pro.UKR» project is part of broader efforts by Italy to support the recovery of Ukraine and the Odesa region, aimed at promoting economic and social resilience in the current challenging conditions.