The State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Ketevan Tsikhelashvili met with representatives of international organizations that implement projects on the occupied territories of Georgia.

At the meeting, the humanitarian and socio-economic situation in the occupied territories was discussed. As well as the facts of human rights violations, various challenges and obstacles that local population faces in the daily regime.

Discussions focused on the ongoing and planned projects implemented by international organizations in health, education, agriculture and humanitarian directions aimed at help local communities and conflicts affected people in the process of confidence building. The sides discussed the importance of continuing projects and initiatives in this direction, deepening cooperation and future prospects.

Ketevan Tsikhelashvili underlined the importance of the involvement of international organizations in the occupied territories of Georgia and thanked them for their efforts and close cooperation.

"We highly appreciate the close cooperation between us and the joint work that is important for maintaining the peace process. Despite various challenges, I want to ask you to continue your involvement and activities because peace investments can bring tangible results", - said Ketevan Tsikhelashvili.

Discussions also focused on the Georgian government's peacekeeping policy, the reconciliation and engagement activities. Special emphasis was made on the new peace initiative "A Step for a Better Future", the new opportunities and benefits that creates this initiative - trade across dividing lines, increasing education opportunities, access to various services, etc.

The State Minister also underlined the priority of confidence building projects and deepening of contacts between people.

"Our message to international partners is to respond with double-handed efforts to all difficulties, to provide additional resources for reconciliation and confidence building. I am sure that together we will be able to achieve progress", - said Ketevan Tsikhelashvili.

The meeting between the Office of the State Minister and international organizations operating in the Abkhazeti region is held annually with the coordination of the United Nations Permanent Representative in Georgia, Niels Scott.