“Georgia’s declared priority direction is the establishment of European standards in our state, and the main guide for this purpose is precisely the Association Agreement,” Health Minister Mikheil Sarjveladze stated while presenting a report at a joint session of the European Integration and Health Protection and Social Affairs committees.

Mikheil Sarjveladze discussed the importance of fulfilling obligations under the Association Agreement in the areas of social policy, equal opportunities, and public health. He highlighted the law “On the Quality and Safety of Human Blood and Its Components,” along with the associated normative acts developed per it. These regulations establish procedures for donor selection, blood component collection, and other critical processes.

According to the minister, given the significance and sensitivity of the issue, efforts to develop these acts are being conducted with the utmost care. He also emphasized that the corresponding subordinate acts are being crafted under the laws “On the Use of Human Tissues and Cells” and “On Human Organ Transplantation.”

Furthermore, the minister highlighted the introduction of a new procedure for acquiring innovative pharmaceutical products. This approach enables the state to purchase medications directly from manufacturers through direct negotiations and special conditions, thereby ensuring patients have access to high-quality treatment.

He noted that a draft law entitled “On Medical Devices” has been developed, aligning with the relevant legal frameworks of the European Union outlined in the Association Agreement. The minister indicated that the initiation of this legislation is expected shortly.

Additionally, the minister mentioned that amendments have been prepared to facilitate the activation of technical regulations concerning cosmetic products. Further procedures are planned to be implemented, with ongoing active engagement and communication with the sector to ensure a smooth and effective process.

Mikheil Sarjveladze also discussed the draft law “On Medically Assisted Reproduction.” He noted that the document was previously presented to the previous convocation of parliament and is currently under discussion. He emphasized that these deliberations are expected to enter an active phase soon.

“Fulfilling the obligations outlined in the Association Agreement is not merely a matter of reaching a certain milestone, closing it, and moving on. Instead, it represents a dynamic process with significant potential to bring tangible, positive changes to people’s lives,” Mikheil Sarjveladze emphasized and highlighted that the Agreement followed extensive, lengthy negotiations, and naturally incorporated beneficial and feasible initiatives for the country.

Sarjveladze underscored that Georgia is progressing in the right direction and at a rapid pace.

“Almost all recent research confirms that the measures taken in the healthcare sector are appropriate and aimed at enhancing sustainability, with the sector developing correctly. This progress is evidenced by key decisions, from the implementation of the universal healthcare program to recent initiatives such as oncology treatment limits and other reforms,” Mikheil Sarjveladze declared.