Tbilisi (GBC) - The European Union (EU) Delegation to Georgia and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) traveled together to the Kakheti region to highlight the impact of Georgia's partners on local communities. During the joint visit, Nicholas Cendrowicz, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Georgia, and USAID/Georgia Mission Director John A. Pennell emphasised the sustainability and long-term impact of EU and USAID development projects that foster economic growth, social cohesion, and resilience in communities across Kakheti.
EU Delegation and USAID officials visited a range of initiatives devoted to education, social and civic issues, and economic growth and job creation. A key highlight included meeting with civil society representatives and local civic leaders. It underscored the critical role of grassroots involvement in delivering assistance, particularly to the most vulnerable Georgians, and at a moment when some have been victims of increasing acts of harassment in an increasingly difficult operational environment. This engagement not only showcased the tangible outcomes of EU and USAID investments but also provided a valuable opportunity to connect directly with programme participants, hear their stories, and better understand the lasting impact of development programmes.
The visit also highlighted the strategic importance of Georgia's regions, for EU and USAID development efforts. By focusing on projects that promote social inclusion, education, innovation, environmental sustainability, the initiative demonstrates how Georgia's partners are helping to build stronger, more resilient communities in Georgia's regions.
"The EU remains deeply committed to supporting the people of Georgia, where our partnerships with local communities in all the regions of Georgia are making a real difference," said Nicholas Cendrowicz, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Georgia. "This joint visit to Kakheti offers a first-hand view of the outcomes of our work, ensuring that the projects we support are both sustainable and impactful for Georgian citizens in these regions. We are proud to stand with our partners at USAID as we contribute together to the growth and prosperity of the people of Georgia."
I was pleased to join our EU colleagues in visiting local partners across Kakheti – business owners, youth, civic leaders, and citizens – seeing firsthand how USAID and EU programmes are helping them make a positive impact in their communities," said USAID/Georgia Mission Director John A. Pennell. "USAID, on behalf of the American people, has partnered with Georgia and its people since 1992, supporting this country to become more secure, democratic, and prosperous as it moves closer to Europe. USAID is dedicated to continuing to work hand-in-hand with Georgians to build a stable democracy where all citizens have a voice in how their society is governed, and a stronger economy that delivers prosperity and opportunity to workers, families, and communities.
This visit follows a first round of visits in Shida Kartli and Imereti regions in July. Both visits demonstrated the significant impact of collaborative efforts by the EU and USAID. This joint visit serves as a powerful reminder of the shared values and goals that underpin the EU's and USAID's efforts in Georgia. It is a compelling demonstration of how coordinated, long-term support can drive meaningful change in the lives of Georgia's citizens, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development across the country.
