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

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Otar Shamugia: "We have made significant progress both in terms of environmental protection and agricultural development, and I believe this result will be evaluated accordingly at the end of the year."

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr.  Otar Shamugia, met with the newly appointed Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Georgia, Mrs. Meline Arakelian. 

During the introductory meeting, the parties reviewed Georgia's progress in agricultural and environmental protection areas, as well as the challenges and prospects for future cooperation between the two countries.

Mr. Shamugia congratulated the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands on the start of the diplomatic mission in Georgia and wished her success.

"Sharing the experience of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in agricultural and environmental protection fields is crucial for Georgia. The agricultural sector in Georgia has received significant support in recent years.

The state is implementing more than ten programs, and there are always fresh initiatives. As a result, agro-food product output increases by approximately 10-12% annually. Compared to last year, the export rate increased by about 25%. We export agro-food products to about 100 countries. In terms of environmental protection, we have adopted several important laws regarding industrial emissions, water resources management, radiation safety, and atmospheric air quality management. I would point out that one of the main priorities is to fulfill the obligations under the Association Agreement. We have made significant progress both in terms of environmental protection and agricultural development, and I think that this result will be evaluated accordingly at the end of the year", said Minister Shamugia.

The Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Georgia, Mrs. Meline Arakelian, noted that in recent years, Georgia and the Kingdom of the Netherlands have established trade links in agriculture and a variety of other areas, stating that it is essential to enhance this cooperation even more.

According to the Ambassador, agricultural production is relevant for both the Kingdom of the Netherlands and Georgia. In this regard, the two countries can share "much-needed" valuable experiences.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the export diversification-related issues, including the efforts taken to improve the ambient air quality and ways to cope with the climate change challenges.