From 14 to 18 January 2026, a Study Tour took place in Berlin within the framework of the German-Ukrainian Agricultural Policy Dialogue and the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) 2026. The event was organized by the Federal Ministry (BMLEH), the new APD team, international organizations, and representatives of policy, business, and academia.

The aim of the event was to strengthen strategic dialogue and practical cooperation between Ukrainian and German stakeholders in the agricultural and food sectors, as well as to promote the implementation of innovations in sustainable water use, agrotechnologies, and plant variety protection, among other areas.

The Ukrainian delegation included Olga Zhovtonog, Director of NGO “Primavera”. On 16 January 2026, during the discussion panel “Technology and Innovation as a Driver of Resilience in EU Crisis-Affected Regions”, organized by FAO and APD Ukraine, Olga Zhovtonog took part in the discussion of key topical issues. In her speech, she emphasized the crucial role of the Water Policy Dialogue (WPD) as an active platform for discussing strategic decisions with the participation of government authorities, science, business, and civil society. The functioning of the Water Policy Dialogue is a critically important instrument for aligning Ukraine’s actions with EU requirements and the expectations of international partners, as well as for ensuring technical and financial support as a foundation for reforms and the recovery of Ukraine’s water management and irrigation systems.

Special attention was also given to the need for integrated approaches in working with local communities, attracting investments for territorial development, using alternative energy sources, creating water and energy storage facilities, and improving policy and governance mechanisms in the field of water resources management. Such comprehensive solutions form the basis for enhancing regional resilience, restoring infrastructure, and ensuring the long-term development of agriculture, communities, and Water User Organizations. Dialogue, partnership, and innovation remain key tools for recovery and a sustainable future for Ukraine.

In addition, Olga Zhovtonog held meetings with German and Dutch donors and partners to discuss prospects for further cooperation, including the continuation of ongoing initiatives and the launch of new projects.