The Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Solomon Pavliashvili, met with World Bank Representatives.

During the meeting, the parties focused on preparations for a proposed hazardous waste management project, investment priorities, and opportunities for future cooperation, while emphasizing the importance of preparatory activities for constructing a landfill for the pre-treatment and disposal of hazardous waste under the project.

Discussions covered a wide range of issues, including the preparation of a feasibility study, an environmental impact assessment (EIA) report, and detailed design documentation. The parties also highlighted the importance of strengthening inter-agency coordination, enhancing institutional capacity, and ensuring that environmental and social considerations are duly addressed to support effective project implementation.

“Developing a modern hazardous waste management system is a key environmental priority for the country, which requires the development of appropriate infrastructure and close cooperation with international partners. The World Bank’s support will contribute to the proper preparation of the project and help improve Georgia’s waste management system”, - said Solomon Pavliashvili.

It is noteworthy that the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture and the Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure, with the involvement of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), have signed a grant agreement to finance the preparation of the project “Georgia Water Supply, Sanitation, Wastewater and Hazardous Waste”. The grant is provided by the World Bank.

Mikheil Gogolidze, Director of the Solid Waste Management Company, and Senior Officials from the relevant Departments of the Ministry attended the meeting.