State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Ketevan Tsikhelashvili made a speech at the National Business Forum of Women Entrepreneurs held in Batumi. More than 250 women entrepreneurs from different regions attended the event which was held for the third time. They represented mostly small and medium businesses.

Ketevan Tsikhelashvili congratulated the audience on March 8 and noted that for the country, which is active in development, it is important that women are actively involved in this process. According to her, for the Office of the State Minister strengthening of women's work is a special priority in terms of peace and civic integration. 

"Today we can see here, in Batumi, very active women from different regions and all of them are involved in the country's economic life. Among them are ladies from Abkhazia - IDPs, victims of conflict. We try to strengthen our policy. We have special programs aimed at helping women entrepreneurs promote their business.

"In these 25 years, women have actually taken their burden on the backbone of the country's social-economic problems and still have a long way in order to achieve our common aim. I am sure strong women will play a big role in the future. I would like to congratulate them on this day and congratulate the residents of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali region, including Gali and Akhalgori residents, who faces special difficulties. Our daily thoughts and activities are also related to improving their life. I am sure that this effort will eventually result in the outcome", - said the State Minister.

The event will be held annually on International Women's Day.