Georgian Defence Minister highlights strengthening country's defence capabilities as Gov’t’s “top priority”

Irakli Chikovani, the incumbent Georgian Defence Minister, on Tuesday highlighted strengthening the country's defence capabilities as the Government’s “top priority”.

In his remarks at a joint session of parliamentary committees, Chikovani focused on the main directions and action plans of the Ministry.

He noted the national defence would be organised based on the “total defence” approach, and by taking into account regional and international security environments.

The official highlighted that a “number of steps” had been taken to further strengthen the Defence Forces on the backdrop of economic growth.

Chikovani stressed an increase in the defence budget was “important” in terms of implementing more programmes and creating opportunities within the Defence Forces.

He also presented an analysis of implementation of innovations provided for by the defence code.