Tbilisi Hosts Green Climate Fund Regional Dialogue

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, delivered the opening remarks at the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Regional Dialogue in Tbilisi.

Hosted by Georgia, the event brings together senior government officials from across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, representatives of international partner organizations, and other key stakeholders engaged in advancing climate action.

“Climate change is becoming an increasingly pressing challenge for our region and is already having a significant impact on our countries and populations. For Georgia, strengthening climate resilience and advancing a sustainable economy are key priorities.  Moreover, in partnership with the Green Climate Fund, Georgia is taking concrete steps to reduce climate-related risks, strengthen early warning systems, and advance the sustainable management of forests.

Our goal is to turn regional cooperation into concrete projects, and projects into investments and tangible results. We want to be not only beneficiaries of international climate cooperation, but also active partners that share our experience with others and contribute to the implementation of practical regional initiatives,” stated Mr David Songulashvili.

On the first day of the Regional Dialogue, the Ministerial Roundtable focused on the theme “From Ambition to Implementation: Scaling Up Country-Driven Climate Investment and Regional Cooperation”. The parties

discussed common challenges posed by climate change, opportunities to strengthen regional cooperation, and ways to advance climate investment. The programme also featured thematic and plenary sessions addressing carbon markets, climate platforms, private-sector engagement, early warning systems, and the GCF’s strategic priorities.

“I am grateful to the Government of Georgia, which is co-hosting this Regional Dialogue. The Dialogue provides countries across the region with an opportunity to share experience, strengthen partnerships, and take concrete steps towards addressing climate challenges. The Green Climate Fund is pursuing a regionally focused approach and is already delivering tangible results. By deepening partnerships, increasing investment, supporting country platforms, and establishing a regional presence, we are helping countries translate their climate ambitions into concrete action and contribute to building a more sustainable future,” stated Mr Thomas Eriksson, Director of the GCF Department for Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East.

The following days of the Regional Dialogue will focus on the preparation and financing of climate projects. Participants will learn about GCF financing instruments and support opportunities, including the Readiness Programme and the Project Preparation Facility (PPF). Bilateral meetings are also scheduled to discuss specific projects and potential financing opportunities.

The event brought together senior representatives from countries across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, along with representatives of international organizations and other partner institutions engaged in climate action.