Resource information
The National Strategy for Development and Integration is a national multi-sectoral strategy covering the period 2007–2013. The goals of the strategy are: a) integrating the country into the European Union and NATO; b) developing and consolidating the democratic state, based on the fundamental liberties and rights of individuals, exercising good governance, fighting corruption and other negative phenomena that obstruct the development and integration of the country, and guaranteeing the functioning of the rule of law; c) achieving rapid, balanced and sustainable economic, social and human development.The strategy aims at reducing poverty in rural areas. To this end it promotes farm modernization and diversification of activities. Rural poverty reduction will be ensured also by increasing product quality and promoting products with high added value. The labour market will be improved to create employment and to decrease poverty rate. Measures include rural banks and credit guarantees, support to Agricultural Information Centers and Agricultural Technology Transfer Centres.With a view to enabling more efficient and inclusive agricultural systems, the strategy defines measures concerning new extension methods (such as Farmer Schools and Technology Development with Participation); research in agriculture; support to producers' organizations; financial support to farmers and agro-businesses. Specific measures concern agricultural lands consolidation. Overcoming uncertainty on property rights is one of the key priorities of the strategy. In addition, equal opportunities will be promoted and economic position of women will be strengthened by offering more opportunities for access to property, capital and credit, especially in rural areas.The strategy also addresses sustainable use of natural resources. In this context, it provides for the preservation of flora and fauna, water resources, rehabilitation of degraded forests, biodiversity preservation, as well as pollution control. Measures and principles concerning food safety are set out as well. For the protection of consumers, mechanisms for early tracking of risks will be established and links with the European systems of information exchange, such as the Rapid Alert System for Non-Food Products (RAPEX) and the Rapid Alert System for Safety of Food and Feed (RASFF) will be created. Inspection and control services will also be established regarding production, processing and marketing. A certification system will be created to ensure safety and quality. In addition food safety and food quality standards will be established. Priorities concerning water supply and sanitation are defined too.
