Georgantas takes over rural development and food ministry in handover ceremony on Wednesday

He said the primary sector was currently facing major problems, such as the rising cost of energy and production, but promised that "the state will be present" and that farmers will not face the crisis alone.

Georgantas also highlighted the importance of the ministry, noting that it has always been "at the centre of economic and social activity" in Greece.

Livanos, on his part, apologised for his stance during the incident in Sparti and outlined the work done during his 13 months at the helm of the ministry.