Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia

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Otar Shamugia met with the Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Regional Representation for the South Caucasus, Maciej Czura

Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture Mr. Otar Shamugia hosted the Head of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Regional Representation for the South Caucasus Mr. Maciej Czura.


During the meeting, the parties discussed the current projects undertaken in the environmental protection and agricultural fields in the country. According to the Minister, a number of important projects are being implemented with the support of donor organizations.

Mr. Shamugia expressed his gratitude to Mr. Czura for the significant assistance provided by the European Investment Bank in the rehabilitation of the Zemo Samgori irrigation system and stressed, that development of irrigation infrastructure is a priority for the country, as improving the water supply to farmers is a crucial factor for the development of agriculture.

The Minister stressed the importance of increasing local production in the country and declared, that technical support, as well as sharing knowledge and introduction of new technologies from partner organizations to their Georgian counterparts are really crucial. The importance of promoting Georgian quality and competitive products in the international markets was also discussed at the meeting.


The Minister also spoke about the implementation of the obligations taken by Georgia under the Association Agreement with the European Union.

"The Ministry has a specific action plan, which is in line with the obligations taken under the Association Agreement with the European Union. Therefore, fulfillment of obligations is a priority for us. Moreover, Georgia has already applied for EU membership and our task is to get closer to our goal as soon as possible," Mr. Otar Shamugia said.


The conversation touched upon environmental reforms undertaken in the country, including the New Forest Code and the Law on Environmental Liability, it was mentioned, that the support of the European Investment Bank will be important in the fulfillment of the obligations undertaken under the Association Agreement.
At the end of the meeting, Mr. Czura noted, that the European Investment Bank is one of the main supporting organizations of the ongoing global projects in the field of climate change and protection of natural resources, and expressed readiness to cooperate with the Georgian side and provide technical, as well as financial support in the implementation of the respective projects.