Commissioner Hansen Delivers Opening Address at Fourth EU Agri 2040 Conference

According to the European Commission Press Corner, Commissioner Hansen delivered the opening remarks at the fourth EU Agri 2040 Agricultural Research and Innovation Conference held in Brussels on September 24, 2026. The high-profile gathering brought together a wide array of participants, stakeholders, and agricultural experts from across the continent to discuss the future trajectory of farming, food security, and technological innovation within the European Union. Alongside Commissioner Hansen, Commissioner Zaharieva also participated in the proceedings, highlighting the critical importance of collaborative policy and targeted research in transforming the agricultural sector for the decades ahead. The event marks a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to modernize European agriculture, ensuring sustainability while addressing emerging economic and environmental challenges through cutting-edge science. Throughout the opening session, speakers underscored the necessity of bridging the gap between academic research and practical farming applications. The Agri 2040 initiative serves as a vital platform for policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders to align their strategic goals, fostering an environment where innovation can thrive at the grassroots level. As European agriculture navigates a complex landscape defined by shifting climate patterns, market volatility, and evolving consumer demands, conferences of this scale provide essential momentum for structural adaptation. Commissioner Hansen noted in the address that the commitment to research and development remains paramount for securing a resilient food system. The discussions in Brussels are expected to yield actionable insights that will guide funding priorities, regulatory frameworks, and technological adoption across member states in the coming years. By focusing heavily on the year 2040 horizon, the conference encourages stakeholders to look beyond short-term fixes and invest in transformative technologies that can guarantee long-term viability for rural communities and agricultural markets alike. The collaboration between different commission portfolios, represented by both Hansen and Zaharieva, demonstrates a unified approach to tackling the multifaceted challenges facing modern European agriculture. As the conference progresses, participants will dive deeper into specific thematic areas, ranging from digital agriculture and precision farming to ecological stewardship and bio-economy integration. Ultimately, the opening remarks set a forward-looking tone for the multi-day event, cementing the European Union's dedication to leading the global transition toward smarter, more sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both producers and consumers across the continent.