David Songulashvili: "Along with expanding protected areas, our main task is to strengthen mechanisms for their effective management and protection."

The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, David Songulashvili, met with the leadership of the Agency of Protected Areas. The Minister reviewed the agency's current activities, completed work, and future plans.

The meeting focused on existing priorities regarding the management of protected areas and the protection of biodiversity. Discussions covered planned measures to strengthen the monitoring system, improve rangers' capacities and working conditions, ensure effective management of protected areas, and develop ecotourism.

"Along with expanding protected areas, our main task is to strengthen mechanisms for their effective management and protection. Particular importance is placed on protecting biodiversity, developing ranger capabilities, and fully utilizing the ecotourism potential in protected areas," stated David Songulashvili.

Today, Georgia has 112 protected areas, covering a total area of 1,066,175 hectares. Georgia's protected areas are managed by 25 territorial administrations.