His Royal Highness Prince Charles met with Christopher Stopes, Team Leader of WYGI Organic Agriculture for Turkey project during the Prince's recent visit to Turkey. During his visit to an organic farm producing sultanas and raisins near Izmir, the Prince discussed the future for organic agriculture in Turkey.

WYGI, working with DeLeeuw International and SAC International are completing a 16 month project for the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA) funded by the EU under the EuropeAid Programme. The project has focused on harmonisation of legislation with the EU Acquis; preparation of an Action Plan for Turkey; training of HQ and regional MARA staff; demonstration in five Pilot Project regions around Turkey; strengthening the certification and control system and developing information and communication.

Turkey will become an increasingly important producer of organic food and fibre. The key policy driver for organic food and farming in Turkey is rural development - and organic is an important component in Turkey's National Rural Development Plan.

For further information please go to http://www.organiktarimturkiye.org or contact info@organictarimturkiye.org