Sustainable Development of Rural Areas of the Czech Republic in the Context of Instruments of the European Union

In the area of agricultural policy and the balanced growth of the countryside, the European Union promotes technological development and creation of jobs in ways that fulfil the criteria of ecological sustainability. The latest reforms to the Common Agricultural Policy are focused on the development of the countryside, which should greatly contribute to the solution of economic, social and environmental problems. The rural development policy is a part of the second pillar of the Common Agricultural Policy of the EU. The main opportunity for the development of the Czech countryside, and agriculture, is aimed at ensuring constant, sustainable growth and employment. It is necessary to fully utilise the cultural traditions, natural resources and the non-productive functions of agriculture and forestry in conjunction with the principles of environmental conservation and looking after the land. The fundamental strategic document which contributes to the implementation of the Lisbon Strategy is the National Strategic Plan for the development of the countryside of the Czech Republic in the period 2007-2013. The agenda for the development of the countryside of the CR in the period 2007-2013 specifies the individual objectives for development of rural areas, and it is an instrument for receiving support from the EU.