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David Songulashvili Meets with Representatives of the French Wine and Livestock Sectors.
The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Mr. David Songulashvili, held a meeting with the representatives of leading French companies in the wine and livestock industries.
The parties focused on strengthening the strategic partnership between Georgia and France in the agricultural sector and identifying new avenues for cooperation.
The sides highlighted the importance of adopting modern technologies, enhancing production standards, and promoting the export of Georgian agricultural products with a main focus on the exchange of expertise and the implementation of joint projects in the wine and livestock sectors.
“Georgian wine stands out for its unique taste and character, making it worthy of special recognition on the international stage. The growing interest from French winemakers and distributors provides strong motivation for Georgian entrepreneurs and further encourages the export of Georgian wine to the French market.
As for the livestock sector, the meeting was attended by organizers of one of Europe’s largest livestock exhibitions, who expressed a keen interest in Georgia’s livestock industry. This is particularly significant, as livestock development remains a key priority for our Ministry.” noted Mr. Songulashvili.
The parties discussed bilateral cooperation, including sharing experience and launching specific investment and educational initiatives that will help modernize the agricultural sector in Georgia and facilitate its integration into European markets.
Mr. Pierre Desprat, Managing Director of Desprat Saint Verny, and other representatives of the mentioned company were among the notable attendees.
It is worth mentioning that the company Desprat Saint Verny has been a family business since 1885 and is currently the fourth-largest wine producer and distributor in France.
“I have always dreamed of visiting Georgia and experiencing the authentic taste of its wine. This visit has three main goals: to learn about the unique Qvevri winemaking tradition and try producing wine in Qvevri myself; to introduce Georgian wine to the French public, who are still largely unfamiliar with its exceptional quality; and to personally contribute to the development of Georgian winemaking,” stated Mr. Desprat.
The livestock sector meeting was attended by Mr. Jacques Chazalet, President of the Livestock Summit—one of Europe's largest and most influential agricultural exhibitions—and Mr. Bruno Dufayette, CEO of Race Salers Viande.
It is worth mentioning that the Livestock Summit attracts nearly 11 million visitors annually and serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and best practices in the fields of livestock, agricultural technology, and education.
“Georgia was honored as the guest country at the 2023 Livestock Summit, one of the most prestigious events in our sector, which brings together professionals in the fields of animal husbandry, agricultural technology, and education and is a platform for sharing experiences in the sector. We want to expand our contacts with Georgian farmers, who can become our partners and important players in this field,” said Mr. Jacques Chazalet.
During their visit, the French delegation toured the Wine Museum of the National Wine Agency, where they tasted wines made from rare Georgian grape varieties.
The Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Lasha Dolidze, Chairman of the National Wine Agency, Mr. Levan Mekhuzla, and Director of the Agricultural Scientific Research Center, Mr. Levan Ujmajuridze, also attended the meeting.