Minister of Finance meets locals of Adjara region
By Nika Gamtsemlidze
Monday, July 22
“My main goal, while planning the budget, is to make sure that there is no gap between what the officials of municipalities are voicing in the reports and what the people of the region are actually talking about.”
According to him, such meetings ensure that the Ministry has accurate and objective information regarding the problems that the people in the region are facing. The meeting in Keda and Shuakhevi was also attended by the representatives of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara, including the head of the Government, Tornike Rizhvadze.
Rizhvadze and Machavariani together inspected infrastructural projects implemented with the help of the Rural Support Programme.
Speaking with the local population, the Finance Minister emphasized the importance of communication with the public and noted that the government will carry out all the important reforms in the fields of infrastructure, water supply, social and education programs planned for 2020, as a result of the involvement of the population.
“For me, as the Minister of Finance, it was very important to meet these people. I am happy that I had the opportunity to hear what their priorities are, and what is the most severe problem for them,” noted the Minister.
As he said, the Ministry of Finance has begun the budgeting process of 2020, and they will try their best to consider the priorities of the people while planning. “We had a frank and open dialogue – we heard criticism where it was needed. I want to say that the population of our country is adequate, especially in the regions, in rural areas. They see problems clearly and are not afraid to openly state their needs,” noted Machavariani.
He also expressed his gratitude towards Rizhvadze for the active infrastructural projects and other important initiatives in the region.
On his part, the head of the Adjarian Government emphasized the significance of such meetings. According to him, “it is necessary to continue communication with the population. Today we have reviewed the specific problems that concerns the population of both municipalities, and we will be considering them while planning the next year’s budget.”
Machavariani and Rizhvade visited several villages, where they got acquainted with the constrictions of bridges and the second stage of gasification, after which the additional 5 200 customers will be supplied.
As it was noted, rehabilitation of water systems and roads is underway in Keda municipality. Works in Shuakhevi are also in full force. Including other infrastructural projects, such as the construction of the modern public school, kindergartens, professional college, etc.
As the Minister of Finance noted, meetings with the population will continue throughout the country.