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

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Otar Shamugia: "I hope the decisions made in Tbilisi regarding the financing of important projects will be another step forward for developing countries in dealing with the global problem of climate change."

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Otar Shamugia, made opening remarks at the 37th meeting of the Green Climate Fund Board. According to the Minister, it is crucial to take even more effective and prompt steps to deal with the challenges posed by climate change.

"The negative impact of climate change has manifested itself in intensified natural events worldwide. Georgia, of course, is no exception in this respect. This year, natural disasters in our country caused many deaths, which is the biggest tragedy and shows the need for more effective and speedier responses to the challenges posed by climate change.

As has been actively stated in recent years, governments should embrace more ambitious plans for fulfilling the Paris Agreement. We appreciate this approach; the Government of Georgia has taken responsibility for joining a joint decision to fight climate change and transform the country's economy into a low-carbon economy.

Furthermore, we have already set more ambitious goals determined at the national level and reflected in the corresponding strategies, plans, and measures.

The Green Climate Fund significantly contributes to mobilizing funds for projects to combat climate change and support sustainable development for developing countries. GCF has funded two national projects to implement mitigation and adaptation measures in Georgia. In addition, we are also involved in GCF regional projects. The Green Climate Fund is an excellent example of cooperation between developed and developing countries to solve global problems," said Mr. Otar Shamugia.

The Minister also focused on the possibilities of future cooperation with the Green Climate Fund in the following areas: Adoption of climate-smart agricultural technologies and practices, promotion of renewable sources of energy, the establishment of sustainable transport and mobility systems, introduction of climate-smart approaches in the education sector, restoration of windbreaks, the establishment of sustainable pasture management systems.

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) board meeting is being held for the first time in the Eastern European region, specifically in Georgia. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is the world's largest fund supporting developing countries in meeting climate change goals. The Board was created by the governments of 194 countries participating in the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).