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As part of his working visit to France, Paris, David Songulashvili, Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, held a meeting with José Manuel Fernandes, Portuguese Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.
“Cooperation between Georgia and Portugal has been growing steadily across various sectors. I believe it is essential to further strengthen our partnership, particularly in agriculture and rural development,” stated Minister Songulashvili during the meeting.
The counterpart Ministers discussed opportunities to deepen bilateral relations, with a particular focus on agriculture, fisheries, and aquaculture. Minister Songulashvili highlighted Portugal’s extensive experience in these areas, especially in developing its fishing sector, noting that Georgia has recently adopted new legislation and approved a national aquaculture development strategy. He also expressed interest in learning from Portugal’s experience.
The conversation also touched on prospects for collaboration in the wine sector. In February 2024, Georgia participated as the host country at the prestigious International Natural Wine Exhibition “Simplesmente Vinho” held in Portugal, showcasing its deep-rooted winemaking traditions.
Considering our Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the European Union, our countries have significant untapped potential to enhance bilateral trade relations. I believe we should work proactively to fully harness this opportunity,” said the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia.
During the meeting with his Portuguese counterpart, Mr David Songulashvili focused on the progress made by Georgia on its path to European integration, noting that Georgia continues to fulfil its obligations under the Association Agreement, which is a roadmap on the path to EU membership. ‘’Accordingly, at the start of the EU enlargement process, Georgia will be ready to apply for membership. We are ready to cooperate with the EU at any time regarding the opening of negotiations. In addition, it is important to have security guarantees from partners,” said Mr. David Songulashvili.
The Minister also commented on recent legislative developments, explaining that, despite international scrutiny, the newly adopted laws aim to ensure greater transparency—an essential principle for all democratic nations.
Portuguese Minister José Manuel Fernandes described the meeting as highly productive.
“I had an important meeting with the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia. In addition to the strong and friendly ties between our countries, we held an in-depth discussion on trade, agriculture, fisheries, and aquaculture development. We also addressed the challenges within these sectors, reaffirming the value of close collaboration. Our partnership will help us find effective solutions to shared challenges. It is important that Europe listens to Georgia and supports its timely integration into the European Union,” said Minister Fernandes.
Acting Ambassador of Georgia to the Republic of France, Mrs Ekaterine Kokaia, and the heads of the National Food Agency, Mr. Vasil Basiladze and Mr. Giorgi Iakobashvili, accompanied the Minister to the meeting.