"Congratulations on the success achieved on the path to European integration. The reforms carried out in this regard in Georgia are very important", said Mr. Janusz Wojciechowski at the meeting with the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Mr. Otar Shamugia at the European Commission in Brussels. According to the European Commissioner, granting the EU candidate status to Georgia is a significant step forward. Georgia has taken appropriate steps to achieve this goal.
Mr. Shamugia expressed appreciation to the European Commissioner for the European Union's assistance to Georgia, notably in agriculture and rural development.
"We have made tangible progress in the priority areas outlined in the analytical report of the European Commission issued last year. The EU duly appreciated this progress. We are ready to work actively to fulfill the priorities and recommendations set by the European Commission. The Ministry is preparing for the next steps of European integration", said Mr. Otar Shamugia.
During the meeting, the Minister briefed the European Commissioner on the reforms carried out in the agricultural area.
"Since 2012, the Government of Georgia has taken unprecedented steps for rural and agricultural development in the country, resulting in large state investments in the mentioned directions. The Ministry continues to work based on the ''Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy of Georgia (2021–2027)'' and its Action Plan. The strategy envisages diversification and development of economic opportunities in rural areas, improvement of social condition and standard of living, based on the principles of sustainable development", said the Minister.
The Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy of Georgia (2021–2027) aims to create an environment that will boost competitiveness in both agricultural and non-agricultural sectors, promoting steady growth of high-quality agricultural products, sustainable use of natural resources, preserving ecosystems, including the adaptation to climate change, and implementation of effective sanitary and phytosanitary systems.
As mentioned by Mr. Shamugia, a working group has already been created to coordinate the implementation of recommendations and develop an action plan. Moreover, the mentioned group will identify all the measures and needs required for the effective and timely completion of the relevant activities for the implementation of the indicated recommendations, following the recommendations presented by the European Union,
According to the European Commissioner, Georgia is successfully implementing the recommendations of the European Commission and is making progress. Georgia's accession to the European Union will be crucial not only for Georgia but also for the European Union and the security of the whole world.
"Georgia's accession has a significant geopolitical aspect for security. Thank you very much again. We are waiting for the integration of Georgia into the European Union", said Mr. Janusz Wojciechovski.
