Defence Minister attends Committee Hearing
Thursday, April 16
Minister of Defence of Georgia Mindia Janelidze appeared at the Hearing of the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Security. He reported to the Members of the Parliament of Georgia on implemented and ongoing reforms at the Defence Ministry and informed them about the future priorities.
Defence Minister talked about the plans for development of the Georgian Armed Forces, forthcoming threats and importance of strengthening defence capabilities. He also elaborated on existing challenges, air defence capabilities, artillery capabilities and development of reserve system concept. In his speech Mindia Janelidze stated that creating worthy working and social conditions for the military service members is one of the priorities of the Defence Ministry. He discussed the current and planned projects for the wounded warriors as well.
Special focus was made on future foreign policy priorities. As Defence Minister stated Georgia’s western course is irreversible highlighting the importance of deepening relationship with partner countries, increasing NATO interoperability and close partnership with the EU. Mindia Janelidze informed the MPs on implementation process of the NATO-Georgia Substantial Package and establishment of the Joint Training and Evaluation Center that will start functioning by the end of the current year.
Mindia Janelidze focused on defence transformation process that means optimization of the existing capabilities and formation of mobile, high professional and NATO interoperable army.
Minister highlighted transparency and accountability of the Defence Ministry as one of the main priorities. He referred to the activities done in this respect and emphasized military education issues and improvement of infrastructure. Mindia Janelidze also delivered the information about the infrastructural projects planned in 2015 to the attendees.
Later on the meeting continued with an interactive regime. Defence Minister answered the questions of the members of Parliament and the representatives of the NGOs. Within the interactive format Defence Minister and the attendees discussed military, political, regional security and other actual issues related with the MoD.
After the committee hearing, Defence Minister held close meeting with the members of Trust Group.
