The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture attended the 32nd meeting of the European Union’s “European Neighborhood Program for Agriculture and Rural Development” (ENPARD) Steering Committee.

Otar Shamugia thanked the European Union for its continuous support and contribution to rural and agricultural development.

“Cooperation with international partners and their support is crucial in implementing reforms. We express our full readiness for cooperation and friendship. We are confident that jointly, we will accomplish numerous additional achievements for the benefit of Georgia and toward the goal of our country’s integration into the EU. As we know, Georgia is waiting for the EU to make a historic decision. Last year, our country was given a European perspective, and 12 recommendations were issued, on which the Government and the Parliament of Georgia are actively working.

Everything is being done to implement the recommendations. The Government of Georgia and the Georgian people are waiting for an important decision, and we hope this decision will be favourable. Regarding the obligations fulfilled within the budget component of the IV phase of ENPARD, the mission of experts hired by the European Commission have paid a visit to Georgia this year. We briefed the evaluators on fulfilling obligations for 2022, and we hope the evaluation will be favourable. Furthermore, the fulfilment of obligations for 2023 is on the agenda, which is a priority for us, and we are actively working to guarantee that all departments, agencies, and services fulfil their responsibilities on time”, - said Otar Shamugia.

He also spoke about issues related to the LEADER approach. According to the Minister, in 2023, GEL 1 million was allocated from the state budget. The state program project was developed and reconciled with the European Commission through UNDP’s support.

Shamugia underlined the institutional reform of the Rural Development Agency, the current state regarding the implementation of the 2021-2023 action plan, and the elaboration of the 2024-2027 action plan. The Minister updated the attendees on changes taken in agricultural and environmental protection fields during the previous year, including progress and plans for the future.