FAO and Georgia sign Country Programming Framework for 2026–2030 to drive agrifood systems transformation

On 25 June, David Songulashvili, Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, and Raimund Jehle, Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Georgia, signed the new Country Programming Framework (CPF) 2026–2030. 

The CPF defines FAO’s strategic engagement in the country for the next five years. The framework is fully aligned with Georgia’s national development priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2026–2030, strengthening coordinated UN support. Developed through inclusive consultations with national and international stakeholders, the framework outlines a strategic vision to transform Georgia’s agrifood systems into more competitive, inclusive, and climate-resilient sectors.

Through the agreement, FAO will provide technical expertise, policy support and convening capacity to promote green and inclusive development and help reduce the urban-rural divide, with a focus on women and youth.

Opening the event, Minister David Songulashvili emphasized the Government’s commitment to advancing the agriculture sector, stating: “We have maintained a long-standing, highly successful partnership with the FAO. Through this robust cooperation, numerous projects have been implemented and continue to be carried out, with the objective of promoting the development of the agricultural sector in accordance with the highest standards. By signing the Country Programming Framework, we once again reaffirm our commitment to fostering a more competitive and inclusive agri-food system that delivers tangible benefits to the rural population of our country.”

In his statement, FAO Representative Raimund Jehle highlighted FAO’s role in strengthening national capacities and promoting inclusive approaches, noting: 

“The CPF 2026–2030 is a joint framework built on shared priorities, expected to leverage global expertise to bridge the urban-rural divide, empower women and youth, and ensure that Georgia’s agricultural sector is prepared for the challenges of climate change through enhanced coordination and stronger institutional coherence, resulting in more resilient, inclusive and sustainable transformation of agrifood systems.”

The framework sets a clear and actionable path for modernizing Georgia’s agricultural landscape. Over the next five years, this collaborative effort will bridge critical development gaps, foster green economic growth and ensure that rural communities, women and youth are at the forefront.

© Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia/Vakhtang Tsatsalashvili