Discussion topics included the development of protected areas in Racha and the significance of studying the possibility of creating more protected areas.

“As we know, the Racha region is distinguished by its special biodiversity. It is important to promote the protection of unique ecosystems and landscapes in the region, while also developing its economic and tourism potential. To this end, we are creating protected areas in Racha and studying the potential for creating new protected areas that will be based on the involvement of the residents and consultations with them”, - said the Head of the Biodiversity and Forestry Department of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Carl Amirgulashvili.

Notably, the six-year program “Biodiversity and Sustainable Local Development in Georgia” funded by the German government and run by the Agency of Protected Areas, allows the provision of community-driven initiatives within the socio-economic component- specifically tailored to the local community needs.

Within the framework of the mentioned project, information meetings with representatives of local communities and stakeholders are planned, where community issues will be identified, and socio-economic projects tailored to their needs will be implemented.

The representatives of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture and the Agency of Protected Areas, and the representatives of local municipalities’ Mayor’s offices, city councils, local communities, and authorities attended the meeting.