FAO Starts Implementing $10 million Project in Georgia

FAO will implement a $10 million project in Georgia.

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Otar Shamugia, and the representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Georgia, Raimund Jehle, signed the "Framework Agreement".

The new agreement envisages improving the productivity and competitiveness of agricultural farms in Georgia. FAO will assist small and medium-sized enterprises involved in agriculture and food production in this regard.

The FAO, together with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, will also work to implement information and consultation service strategy for farmers. Under the agreement, FAO will support the Ministry in introducing food safety standards and launching traceability systems that will benefit each consumer of agricultural products. The promotion of export opportunities is also considered.

"We appreciate the successful cooperation between FAO and the Government of Georgia. I would like to thank FAO for supporting us in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We are implementing a number of important projects together and I hope this effective cooperation will continue in the future.", noted Otar Shamugia.

The Minister noted at the meeting that the European Neighbourhood Programme for Agriculture and Rural Development - ENPARD will implement a large-scale project worth $10 million, funded by the European Union. The project will provide additional assistance to Georgia in terms of food safety and the introduction of standards in order to better protect the rights of consumers in the country and increase the potential for Georgian products to be exported to EU member states.

"Within the framework of the signed agreement, FAO, with its expertise and experience, is ready to support the process of transformation of food systems in Georgia. In addition, FAO will actively work with the Georgian side to adapt to the country's climate change.

By using rational and sustainable natural resources, reducing land degradation and introducing climate-friendly agricultural methods, the agri-food sector will become sustainable and adaptable to climate change.", noted Raimund Jehle.