David Songulashvili Meets with the Minister of Agriculture of Uzbekistan in Baku

As part of his official visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, met with the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Mr Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed cooperation-related issues between Georgia and Uzbekistan.

According to Mr Songulashvili, the two countries have clear potential to further strengthen the positive dynamics of cooperation, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Particular emphasis was placed on the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Scientific-Research Centre of Agriculture of Georgia and the National Centre for Knowledge and Innovation in Agriculture of Uzbekistan, which envisages cooperation and the exchange of experience in the viticulture and winemaking fields.

“Georgia’s centuries-old winemaking tradition provides a solid foundation for international cooperation. The sector is actively developing in Uzbekistan, creating new opportunities. Cooperation in improving grape varieties, enhancing disease resistance, and adopting modern technologies will generate mutual benefits and strengthen the competitiveness of the sector. Scientific research is one of the key drivers of modern agricultural development. Therefore, it is important to further strengthen cooperation between research institutions, which will facilitate the adoption of innovations and more effective solutions to existing challenges,” Mr David Songulashvili stated.

The parties also focused on the dynamics of trade in agri-food products, which continues to grow, reflecting the strengthening of economic ties between the two countries.

“We have a historically strong and close partnership with Georgia. Trade volumes increased significantly last year, which is a positive trend; however, despite these achievements, there remains considerable untapped potential. There are opportunities to expand trade in agricultural products, including cooperation in research, innovation, and knowledge sharing. While we produce grapes in large quantities, Georgia has particularly extensive experience and well-established practices in winemaking, making this field of special interest to us,” Mr Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov noted.

The parties also discussed opportunities to deepen trade relations and exchange experience in the tea cultivation, citrus production, fisheries, and aquaculture areas.

The Deputy Minister, Mr Lasha Dolidze, Head of the International Relations and European Integration Department, Mr Davit Chitaishvili, Director of the Rural Development Agency, Mr Zurab Gozalishvili, and Head of the National Food Agency, Mr Giorgi Iakobashvili, accompanied the Minister.