The State Minister for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Ketevan Tsikhelashvili met with Thomas Mayr-Harting, Managing Director for Europe and Central Asia of the European External Action Service.

The main issue of the discussion was the situation in the occupied territories, especially in terms of human rights. The State Minister in details reviewed human rights violations, humanitarian and security issues and challenges.

The discriminatory environment in which the population of Gali and Akhalgori live was underlined. The problems and challenges of the population living along the dividing lines were also emphasized.

Ketevan Tsikhelashvili introduced the Georgian reconciliation and engagement policy to the guest. One of the main topics of discussion was the peace initiative "A Step to a Better Future", which is currently in the process of implementation. The State Minister reviewed its progress and highlighted the importance of partners support and engagement in the implementation of the initiative. They reviewed the specific benefits and privileges that this initiative will bring people living on the occupied territories and along the dividing lines.

The State Minister thanked the guest for supporting Georgia's peacekeeping policies and engaging in peaceful resolution of the conflict. The need for deepening cooperation and development of bilateral relations was noted.