The Agreement signed within the framework of the European Neighborhood Program for Agriculture and Rural Development - ENPARD IV envisages financial assistance of USD 3.4 million, which will be provided by the Swedish Development Agency for taking support measures in the food safety, sanitary and phytosanitary fields.

Otar Shamugia emphasized the importance of increasing the production of quality products in the country and the need for international support in adopting and utilizing modern technologies and improving knowledge.

The Minister expressed his gratitude to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and the Swedish government for long-standing effective cooperation and emphasized the importance of ENPARD IV regarding Georgia’s rapprochement with the European Union and simplification of access to European markets.

“All steps taken towards EU Integration are successful, and proceeding smoothly. The Ministry fulfills its commitments in a clear and precise manner. As we are all aware, the support of international partners is crucial in this process, and I would like to express my gratitude for your efforts’’, - said Shamugia.

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) representative in Georgia, Raimund Jehle spoke extensively about the successful implementation of ENPARD III and expressed his desire to achieve tangible results in the food safety, sanitary and phytosanitary fields of the country during the implementation of the Project ENPARD IV.

“This agreement is another milestone towards successful cooperation between the Ministry and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. It is important to mention, that we are launching a new project, where experts from FAO, the Czech Republic, the European Union, and the Kingdom of Sweden will be equally involved. The effective implementation of the aforementioned project will be another step forward on the path of Georgia’s integration into the European Union”, - said Raimund Jehle.

According to the Deputy Head of the Mission, Erik Illes, Georgia is a reliable partner for the Swedish government, noting, that he is delighted to have an opportunity to cooperate with the Georgian side within the framework of the project, specifically in the sanitary and phytosanitary fields.