US Ambassador to Georgia Kelly Degnan traveled to Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region together with Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Natia Turnava and a group of prominent women business leaders.

In Zugdidi, US Ambassador learned to make cheese with Governor Alexander Motserelia in Beso Chitanava’s home kitchen.

According to US Embassy, on this first trip to Western Georgia, the Ambassador is learning about the unique cultural traditions of the region and the diversity of experiences Georgia offers tourists.

“At Mr. Chitanava’s home, she also got to see how USAID Georgia’s Zrda program is helping him grow his business, hosting visitors and introducing them to Megrelian food and music.

This is a powerful example of how business expertise developed in the United States can help Georgians celebrate the richness of their own culture and create new jobs in their communities.

Later in the afternoon, Ambassador Degnan toured the Enguri Dam to explore how energy resources are coordinated across the Administrative Boundary Line. The Ambassador’s travels bring her near the ABL with Abkhazia and once again emphasize the United States’ commitment to Georgia’s territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders,” the Embassy said.