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David Songulashvili Meets FAO Representative in Georgia, Raimund Jehle
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr David Songulashvili, met with Mr Raimund Jehle, Representative of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in Georgia, as part of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Regional Dialogue currently taking place in Tbilisi.
During the meeting, the parties discussed opportunities to mitigate the impacts of climate change, promote climate-smart agriculture, attract investment to the sector, and mobilise the relevant financial resources.
“It is important to strengthen cooperation with our international partners and mobilise financial resources that will enable the country to implement climate-related projects. In this regard, cooperation with FAO and the implementation of joint projects will make a significant contribution to achieving our shared objectives,” said Mr David Songulashvili.
The parties also focused on ongoing and planned FAO-supported projects, including developing agricultural policy and extension systems, land consolidation, restoring shelterbelts, fisheries and aquaculture, strengthening food safety, and strengthening the national animal identification system.
Particular attention was also paid to a new project planned with the support of the European Union, with a total budget of approximately EUR 3 million. The project will support the development of agriculture, fisheries, and aquaculture in Georgia. Within the agricultural component, it will place particular emphasis on strengthening Farmer Field Schools and extension services.
“As part of our cooperation with Georgia, it is essential for us to contribute to the sustainable development of agriculture and to strengthen the knowledge and services available to farmers. Strengthening agricultural extension services is particularly important, as it will enable farmers to access practical knowledge, expertise, and the support they need.
Fisheries and aquaculture are also among our key priorities. Georgia has significant potential in this field, and I believe that strengthening relevant expertise and technical assistance will make a substantial contribution to the sectoral development,” said Mr Raimund Jehle.
Representatives of the relevant Departments of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture and FAO attended the meeting.