Minister of Agriculture presented Georgia as the “homeland of wine” at a ministerial meeting in France, underscoring country’s 8,000 years of continuous history of viticulture and winemaking.

Speaking at the 45th World Congress of Vine and Wine and the 22nd General Assembly of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine, taking place in Dijon, Otar Shamugia highlighted the integral role of wine in Georgian culture and “identity”, as well as its contribution to the country’s economy.

“I am proud to represent Georgia, the homeland of wine, among all the honourable tribunes. Viticulture and wine-growing are key contributors to our economy and are important areas of focus for our development efforts today.

Georgia’s export market had expanded in recent years, leading to a record increase to up to 100 million litres of high-quality Georgian wine being now sold in 70 countries worldwide”, - said the Minister.

The meeting culminated in the adoption of a declaration reaffirming the commitment to the Organisation and emphasising the importance of the vine and wine sector.