Özdemir takes stock: What remains of his time as Minister of Agriculture?

The outgoing Minister of Agriculture Ãzdemir sees no responsibility for the agricultural diesel conflict and the farmers' protests. He accuses the Union of a blockade mentality they need to move away from.

Positive Assessment of Term

Outgoing Federal Minister of Agriculture Cem Ãzdemir (Greens) has given a positive assessment of his term. He fought at the cabinet table to ensure that the legitimate concerns of farmers were heard, said Ãzdemir in a farewell interview with "Welt am Sonntag." In addition to the introduction of the animal husbandry label, Ãzdemir credits the bio-strategy and the rise of Agri-photovoltaics as strengths of his term.

Emphasis on Fight Against Agricultural Diesel Cuts

Regarding the farmers' protests and the abolition of the agricultural diesel refund, he said: "I modestly say, I have significantly contributed to the reversal of one and a half of two cut resolutions. The vehicle tax exemption was not removed as initially decided, and the tax benefits for agricultural diesel were not suddenly reduced."

Focus on Unity During Protests

During the farmers' protests, he saw his role mainly in contributing to "holding the country together." He faced the protests and attended rallies that "were not necessarily pleasurable for a member of the federal government," according to Ãzdemir.

Improvements Needed for Animal Husbandry Label

Ãzdemir also addressed the reform plans of the future government from CDU and SPD for the mandatory animal husbandry labeling he introduced: "Improvements are always good, and we had already planned further updates," he said.

Call for Union to Shift from Total Blockade to Governance

He accuses the Union of a "total blockade" in agricultural policy, not only with the animal husbandry label but also with other topics. He hopes the Union can quickly switch back to governance, as the challenges for farms and the environment persist.

Challenges and Disappointments

Ãzdemir expressed disappointment that he failed to reform the Federal Forest Act, attributing the failure to the FDP. He feels that he has initiated the transformation of forests into climate-resilient mixed forests and mobilized significant funding.

Strengthened Cooperation with Ukraine

In the interview, he emphasized the close cooperation with Ukraine following the Russian invasion. He highlighted the importance of not allowing Russia to destabilize Ukraine's vital agricultural position.

Green Opposition and Future Focus

Looking ahead, Ãzdemir promises a constructive opposition role for the Greens in all sustainable projects. He will be focusing on the 2026 state elections in Baden-Württemberg as the Green party's lead candidate.