The Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, and Food of the Government of Aragón, Arancha Simón, reaffirmed the region’s commitment to the Leader program during the ‘Leader Aragón Days’ held at the Castle of Mora de Rubielos. This event, organized by the Aragonese Rural Development Network, focused on analyzing rural development policies in the context of the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027.
A Key Meeting for Rural Development in Aragón
The ‘Leader Aragón Days’ brought together institutional representatives, Local Action Groups, technicians, and experts in rural development to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the Leader program. The event, held this Thursday at the iconic Castle of Mora de Rubielos, focused on financing, cooperation, and innovation opportunities within the European framework, with particular attention to rural Aragon.
During her speech, Arancha Simón highlighted the essential role of Local Action Groups as catalysts for projects that promote economic activity and life in the villages. She emphasized the importance of tailoring rural development policies to the specific needs of each region, ensuring that interventions respond to concrete realities.
Local Participation and Contributions
The mayor of Mora de Rubielos, Hugo Arquímedes, expressed gratitude for the selection of the municipality as the venue for the event and highlighted the ability of the Leader program to support small business initiatives that are vital for maintaining population and quality of life in the villages. José Manuel Penella, president of the Aragonese Rural Development Network, emphasized the strategic role of Local Action Groups in managing European funds and the importance of preparing the next financial framework to continue promoting rural projects.
The forum also addressed topics such as the execution of interventions under the CAP Strategic Plan, positioning in the face of the new Multiannual Financial Framework, and the application of artificial intelligence to the Leader program. These topics reflect an approach toward innovation and new technologies as tools to optimize management and open new opportunities in rural development.
Innovation and the Future of Rural Development
Simón highlighted the relevance of artificial intelligence and digitalization as elements that can improve project management, reduce administrative burdens, and connect initiatives within the territory. The event also explored the opportunities that programs like Erasmus+ can offer to Local Action Groups, underscoring the importance of international cooperation.
The event in Mora de Rubielos consolidated the Government of Aragón’s support for the Leader program, emphasizing European funding, regulatory stability, and innovation as essential pillars for rural development and the sustainability of life in Aragonese villages.
