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

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Otar Shamugia made remarks at the Ministerial meeting in Washington, DC.

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Mr. Otar Shamugia, participated in the Ministerial meeting "Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate - AIM for Climate" at the official invitation of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The Ministerial meeting was held within the framework of the joint initiative of the United States of America and the United Arab Emirates, embracing representatives from more than 45 states (including Great Britain, Canada, Brazil, Egypt, Australia, Japan, Korea, India, etc.) and more than 275 non-governmental partners. The former Vice President of the USA, Mr. Albert (El) Gore, the Minister of Climate Change and Environment of the United Arab Emirates, Mrs. Mariam Almheiri, and the Secretary of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), Mr. Thomas J. Vilsack, made opening remarks at the event. "AIM for Climate" aims to significantly increase collective engagement through innovation and investment in climate-smart agriculture and food systems.

According to Mr.  Otar Shamugia, Georgia is actively working to reduce the negative impact of climate change on the agricultural sector. Increasing the adaptive capacity of the agricultural sector is one of the most critical priorities of the Georgian government.

"Special attention is paid to introducing and implementing climate-smart agricultural practices in the Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy 2021-2027. Saving water resources and rational and efficient use of water resources is an approach introduced in the agricultural sector against the backdrop of climate change.

Georgia aspires to become a full-fledged member of the European Union. We are taking effective and necessary steps to fulfill international obligations taken under the EU-Georgia Association Agreement. Moreover, I believe that introducing relevant agricultural innovations will help to reduce climate change's negative impact on the agricultural sector and increase productivity. With united and joint efforts, we can take essential steps in the respective area", said Mr. Otar Shamugia in his speech.

Mrs. Nino Tandilashvili, the First Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia attended the Ministerial meeting.