Environment and Agriculture Minister Meets with Finnish Ambassador to South Caucasus and Finnish Meteorological Institute Representatives
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, January 25, 2024
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Otar Shamugia, along with the Ambassador of Finland to the South Caucasus, Kirsti Narinen, and representatives of the Finnish Meteorological Institute, discussed prospects for future cooperation. The focus areas include reducing risks and disasters caused by climate change, as well as addressing challenges related to water resources and air quality.
"Ensuring the perfect maintenance of early warning systems in the country remains one of our main priorities, and active efforts have been ongoing in this direction for years. The long-term collaboration with the Finnish Meteorological Institute, along with the sharing of their valuable experience, is expected to bring significant results.
There is a need to establish a system in the shortest possible time to effectively mitigate the risks caused by climate change. Notably, last year, Georgia attained the status of a candidate for EU membership. The Ministry of Environment Protection and Agriculture is actively working to fulfill its obligations within its scope of competence. The support of our partners in these processes is crucial," Shamugia stated.
During the meeting, the minister highlighted the significant progress the country has made in recent years in the management of water resources and air quality monitoring, while also addressing the existing challenges. Otar Shamugia expressed gratitude to the Finnish side for their support.
As the Ambassador of Finland to the South Caucasus, Kirsti Narinen stated, Finland supports Georgia on the path of European integration, where environmental issues play a crucial role. Finland will do its best to assist the country in achieving the set goals.
