Chairman of the Government of Ajara and OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities Convene to Discuss Civil Integration and Diversity

The Chairman of the Government of Ajara, Zurab Pataradze, hosted the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities, Christoph Kamp, for an official bilateral meeting to discuss regional integration and human rights frameworks.

 

The primary focus of the dialogue centered on the protection of the rights of ethnic minorities in Georgia, the implementation of comprehensive civil equality and integration policies, and strategic mechanisms to ensure their complete and active participation in public life.

 

During the session, both parties evaluated the current landscape, ongoing challenges, and prospective avenues for future cooperation regarding minority rights protection, civic integration, and the provision of equal opportunities. The participants emphasized that Ajara stands out as a exemplary region defined by its rich ethnic and religious diversity. Within this context, the regional administration continues to prioritize the active engagement of every citizen in public affairs, the preservation of distinct cultural identities and traditions, and the guarantee of equitable access to education, state services, and employment opportunities.

 

The Chairman of the Government underscored the administration's steadfast commitment to fostering mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and social cohesion across all communities. He noted that maintaining a healthy, institutionalized dialogue remains of paramount importance, supported by regular consultative meetings with representatives of various religious confessions to address and resolve regional community issues with due diligence.

 

The discussion also highlighted the vital role of the local Abkhazian diaspora. Both officials noted that the institutionalized teaching of the Abkhazian language at the Feria public school serves as a cornerstone initiative, fundamentally contributing to the preservation of Abkhazian cultural heritage and the strengthening of cross-community relations.

The high-level meeting, convened at the Ajara Government Headquarters, was also attended by Maia Khajishvili, Minister of Education and Sports of Ajara, and Anna-Cecil Levra, Political Advisor to the OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities.