"Eurocodes Reform to Boost Technology, Safety, and Competitiveness" - Nino Chokheli

The USAID "Employers for Vocational Education" and "Economic Governance Program" are partnering with "Element Holding" to facilitate the effective implementation of the Eurocodes reform in Georgia, as shared by Nino Chokheli, the deputy head of USAID's economic governance program, on the "Business Partner" program.

Chokheli emphasized the program's central role in supporting Georgia's European integration, particularly in adopting legislation aligned with the association agenda and the DCFTA agreement, including construction regulations. This reform involves integrating norms established in the European Union, which dictate rules for buildings, infrastructure structures, and their structural components.

"The introduction of Eurocodes is crucial for ushering in new technologies, ensuring safety, and enhancing competitiveness in the construction sector," Chokheli stated. While USAID's program isn't directly overseeing the reform, its significance has prompted a collaborative effort through a grant competition initiated by the "Association of Infrastructure Builders."

Chokheli believes that adopting Eurocodes is not just about aligning with EU legislation but is essential for transitioning the sector to a more advanced stage. "Our partnership with 'Element Holding' represents a novel approach for USAID, one that is being actively adopted globally and within our program," she added.

This cooperation, according to Chokheli, involves engaging the private sector in developmental tasks, with at least three different parties - state, private sector, NGOs, or others - participating in each reform area, depending on the subject matter and vested interests.

Highlighting the critical role of private sector involvement, Chokheli notes that USAID's collaboration will now be more systematic and extensive. She also remarks on Georgia's preparedness for the Eurocodes implementation, citing widespread public awareness and positive advancements over the years.