Emphasis on solidarity and production in cooperatives

İslam Köse, the Provincial Director of Agriculture and Forestry in Edirne, stated that cooperatives are one of the most important organizational models that protect the economic interests of producers and support rural development. He emphasized that cooperatives operating with a spirit of solidarity and cooperation play an indispensable role in the sustainability of the agricultural sector. Köse announced that there are 160 Agricultural Development Cooperatives, 99 Irrigation Cooperatives, and 16 Fisheries Cooperatives in Edirne. He highlighted that these structures create a strong cooperative network at every stage of production. Additionally, he reported that 195 out of 275 agricultural cooperatives in the province are members of the S.S. Edirne Village Development and Other Agricultural Cooperatives Union.

Köse stated that the union undertakes important tasks such as strengthening coordination among cooperatives, developing a culture of joint action, and protecting the rights of producers. He also touched upon the contribution of cooperatives to milk production and marketing, noting that 152 cooperatives in Edirne are actively engaged in milk collection activities. Köse mentioned that approximately 104 thousand tons of milk were contributed to the economy in 2025, calling this a concrete indicator of solidarity among producers. These figures demonstrate the significant impact of the cooperative approach on the regional economy.

During the ordinary general assembly, comprehensive evaluations were made regarding the development of cooperative activities. The decisions taken at the meeting were hoped to benefit producers, cooperatives, and Edirne's agriculture. The general assembly concluded after sector representatives exchanged views. Such meetings are crucial for improving the efficiency of cooperatives and finding solutions to producers' problems.

The cooperative structure in Edirne plays a critical role in the sustainability of agricultural production and rural development. Cooperatives operating across the province facilitate producers' access to markets while helping to reduce input costs. Especially in areas like milk production, the collection and marketing services provided by cooperatives enable small producers to survive. This ensures that agricultural production in the region continues more stably.

In conclusion, cooperative activities in Edirne demonstrate how a culture of solidarity and cooperation positively reflects on the agricultural sector. As İslam Köse emphasized, cooperatives protect the economic interests of producers while supporting rural development. The contribution of 104 thousand tons of milk to the economy in 2025 proves how effective this structure is. Similar meetings and collaborations are expected to further strengthen cooperatives in the future.