The project aims to assist the cabinet of the Minister and the departments of MAFWE that are directly linked to preparation of strategic documents such as a National Agricultural and Rural Development Strategy, definition of rural areas, completing the startegic directions, policies and structures required for continued approximation to EU including approximation to EU Common Agricultural Policy and utilisation of IPARD funds. This year the MAFWE requested a prolongation and continuation of the support for another year.
The Sida determination for project extension was confirmed during the annual review of agricultural portfolio at a meeting with the Minister and the Sida representatives from Skopje and Stockholm. It was agreed that the project should continue in the same manner until May 2009.