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Lasha Dolidze Meets with FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu
As part of the 35th Session of the FAO Regional Conference for Europe and Central Asia in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Mr Lasha Dolidze, met with FAO Director-General Mr Qu Dongyu.
During the meeting, the parties reviewed core areas of collaboration between Georgia and FAO, as well as ongoing efforts supporting the transformation of agri-food systems. Specific focus was placed on food security, rural development, climate-resilient agriculture, and advancing the competitiveness of Georgian agricultural products.
Mr Lasha Dolidze underscored the ongoing reforms in Georgia’s agricultural sector, highlighting the importance of climate-smart agriculture, food security, and the integration of modern technologies for rural advancement. The conversation also included potential cooperation in land consolidation, aquaculture growth, digital system implementation, and institutional capacity building.
The parties also addressed preparations for the new FAO–Georgia Country Programming Framework (CPF) for 2026–2030. As mentioned, the program will support the priority areas, including rural development, climate resilience, transformation of agri-food systems, the introduction of digital technologies, and alignment with international standards.
The FAO Director-General positively assessed the ongoing agri-food reforms in Georgia and highlighted the significant potential of Georgian winemaking and agritourism as important drivers of rural development, value creation, and increased international recognition.
The parties also discussed opportunities for deepening cooperation within FAO’s global initiatives, including “Hand-in-Hand,” “Digital Villages,” and “One Country One Priority Product” (OCOP).