„To face the challenges ahead, I will need the „faith” that you cheesemakers have” – said European Commissioner Christophe Hansen to Arpad Ficsor hungarian dairy farmer and cheesemaker when he visited the Paraszt Sajt Farm at the end of last year.

European Commissioner Christophe Hansen visited the Paraszt Sajt Farm in Hungary, run by Arpad Ficsor and his family (members of the Magyar Sajtkészítők Egyesülete, the Hungarian Cheesemakers Association), showcasing one of the country’s cleanest, most traditional and EU-standard dairy facilities. Together with Hungarian Agriculture Minister István Nagy, the Commissioner highlighted the importance of safe food production, rural innovation and high-quality European agriculture.

For Arpad, owner of Paraszt Sajt farm, dairy farming and cheesemaking is both a mission and a spiritual experience: „Few people are given the opportunity that dairy farmers and cheesemakers have to do such individual work that results in real value creation and brings joy to many people, allowing us to connect with them.” He continued: „In today’s materialistic worldview, I believe that dairy farming and cheesemaking is not possible without faith.”

European Commissioner Christophe Hansen emphasized that European agriculture is facing major changes, and there are many unknowns, so I will need the faith that you cheesemakers have, because we have a difficult job ahead.

Hungarian Agriculture Minister István Nagy added that during his discussions with the commissioner, particular emphasis was placed on market issues, trade agreements, and the Mercosur agreement to be concluded with South American countries, and what these could bring to Europe. He added that they also discussed how Hungary can find its place and role in the changing market environment, ensuring the security and development of farmers.