Rachel Clogg informed the State Minister about the activities carried out by the British organization “Conciliation Resources”, current projects and future activities aimed at conciliation and deepening relations between the Georgian-Abkhazian communities.  

The Enguri Bridge crossing point opened on July 5 so that locals residing across the occupied Abkhazia region will freely enter the territory controlled by the Georgian central government.  

The meeting was held in an interactive mode. Representatives of various fields shared their views and assessments with the State Minister on current issues. State Representative in Kvemo Kartli Shota Rekhviashvili and Gardabani Mayor Ramaz Budaghashvili took part in the meeting.  

The Federal Republic of Germany is making a financial contribution of EUR 300,000 to the “Peace Fund for a Better Future” operationalized on September 21, 2020 under the Georgian Government’s peace initiative “A Step to a Better Future”.  

Tea Akhvlediani thanked the guest for his support in both areas of the Office’s work – reconciliation and assistance in the process of implementing the civic equality and integration policy. The importance of the ongoing projects in Georgia, as well as the implementation of the 2020-2025 country development strategy was underlined.  

The decision maintains that Russia’s continuing military presence in Georgia impedes the peaceful conflict resolution process and undermines the security and stability in the wider region and violates the international obligations and commitments, including under the EU-mediated 12 August 2008 Ceasefire Agreement.  

Georgia, throughout history, had ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity. For centuries, representatives of different ethnic groups and denominations have coexisted in Georgia in a friendly manner, respecting each other's beliefs and making a significant contribution to the development and strengthening of the country. Today, these unique traditions are preserved and consolidated within the framework of state policy. The Georgian government will spare no effort to strengthen the principles of civic equality and the tradition of mutual respect in our multi-ethnic and multi-confessional society”, - said the State Minister.  

Tea Akhvlediani expressed gratitude for Switzerland's strong position on Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as for its contribution to the process of peaceful settlement of the conflict and the confidence building.  

The two co-facilitators took note of recent changes concerning freedom of movement and related pandemic measures, and called on participants to implement further solutions to improve the socio-economic situation stemming from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing closure of the crossing points along the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL).