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The official opening of the European Rural Parliament was held on 12 September in the Omega Hall of the Targi Kielce's Congress Centre.

European Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski, on behalf of the European Commission, welcomed the guests, emphasised the importance of the Świętokrzyskie region's tradition, and discussed the current and future activities of the European Union for rural areas.

Anna Gembicka, Secretary of State in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, wished for fruitful debates. The Minister highlighted how important it is to participate in such meetings as the European Rural Parliament: - In Poland, over 40% of the population lives in rural areas, which is why it is so essential that the voice of rural residents is formulated and expressed both in the national debate and on the European Union's arena. We meet in a beautiful region of our country, in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, which boasts a rich historical heritage and unique natural and cultural values. let me use the opportunity - may the event commencing today abound with fruitful debates, interesting conversations and inspiring reflections that will allow for better joint shaping of the situation in Europe's agriculture and in rural areas - emphasised the Secretary of State.

Jan Krzysztof Ardanowski - Chairman of the Council for  Agriculture and Rural Development mentioned the problem of not understanding the voice of rural residents: - Rural areas in Poland have become a very good place to live. even better than housing estates, than urban areas where people become anonymous. A village is a place of life and professional activity. Alas, many rural residents in Europe, farmers in particular, are convinced that they cannot have their say at the level of politicians, the European Union and the national authorities.

Marek Jońca, Member of the Board of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, spoke on behalf of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship authorities and welcomed the guests to the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship: - We are honoured that this year's 5th edition of the European Rural Parliament takes place in the beautiful, hospitable Świętokrzyskie region, which is the home for small and medium-sized family farms.

The second day of the European Rural Parliament is the study visits day - the event participants will learn about the traditional flavours of Świętokrzyskie, see the cultural Świętokrzyskie diversity of towns, learn about environmental protection projects and smart villages. After the study visits, participants return to the Congress Centre to learn about the diverse offer of local producers.

The consecutive days bring thematic workshops and a discussion panel on the future of rural areas in Europe .Smart villages of the future, policy programs and their impact on the countryside, technologies and digital solutions applied in rural areas, and rural tourism come to the fore.

The meeting in Kielce will culminate with the official signing of the Kielce Declaration.

(MS)