David Songulashvili: ““We Have Signed a Country Programming Framework to Enhance UN Support for the Agricultural Sector”

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Mr David Songulashvili, and the FAO Representative in Georgia, Mr Raimund Jehle, signed the Country Programming Framework (CPF) for 2026–2030.

 

The document defines FAO’s five-year engagement in supporting the agri-food sector and is fully aligned with Georgia’s national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).

 

Developed through extensive consultations with national and international stakeholders, the CPF reflects a strategic vision to transform Georgia’s agri-food systems into a more competitive, inclusive, and climate-resilient sector, while strengthening coordinated UN support.

 

Through the CPF, FAO will provide technical expertise, policy support, and targeted assistance to promote green and inclusive development.

 

“We have a long-standing and successful partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Numerous projects aimed at supporting the high-standard development of the agricultural sector have been implemented and are currently underway. By signing the Country Programming Framework (CPF), we reaffirm our commitment to building a more competitive and inclusive agri-food system that delivers tangible benefits to our rural population,” said Mr David Songulashvili.

 

FAO Representative Mr Raimund Jehle emphasized the organization’s role in strengthening national capacities and promoting inclusive approaches.

 

“The Country Programming Framework (CPF 2026–2030) is an agreement based on shared priorities, aimed at leveraging global expertise to bridge the urban–rural divide, empower women and youth, and ensure that Georgia’s agricultural sector is prepared to address the challenges of climate change,” said Mr Jehle.

 

United Nations Resident Coordinator in Georgia, Mr Didier Trebucq, also welcomed the agreement, highlighting its significance. 

 

“I am pleased with the signing of the Country Programming Framework between the Ministry and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. This document contributes significantly to the development of agri-food systems in the country, the increase of agricultural productivity, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions within the framework of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). I congratulate both parties on the signing of this important document,” Mr Didier Trebucq stated.

 

The Country Programming Framework (2026–2030) serves as a practical roadmap for addressing development gaps, ensuring green economic growth, and improving the well-being of rural populations.

 

The signing ceremony at the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture was attended by the Deputy Head of the Government Administration, Mr Zviad Barkaia; Deputy Minister, Mr Lasha Dolidze; representatives of FAO; and the heads of relevant departments within the Ministry system.