“We should together find a way to help the population to escape the occupation”, - this statement was made by the State Minister of Georgia for Reconciliation and Civic Equality Mrs. Ketevan Tsikhelashvili during the meeting with the representatives of non-governmental organizations working on Georgian-Ossetian relations, Ossetian community representatives, experts and civil activists.

The State Minister of Georgia for Reconciliation and Civic Equality talked about the Georgian government's peace approaches, reconciliation and engagement policy priorities.

"We introduced the participants the priorities of our peace policy, our plans, aimed at reconciliation, confidence-building, promotion of contacts between the people. We talked about steps of Government towards integration. On the other hand, we have discussed the projects, which are in the public sector. In this regard, the civil society’s views and initiatives are very important. We have to find a way to restore bridges between our societies, give the mixed families the opportunity to visit their relatives, expand contacts, help the population to escape the occupation" – said Ketevan Tsikhelashvili.

The State Minister also reviewed the following issues: introduction of Ossetian language courses in public schools, availability of information in Ossetian language, including the information about visa-free travel and European integration issues, increasing the level of access to education, publication of Ossetian literature and cultural projects.

During the discussion Ketevan Tsikhelashvili answered the questions of participants.