The purpose of the conference is to emphasize once again the global importance of proper management of water resources and define effective measures to achieve this.

At the first session of the conference, which was opened by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, Irakli Karseladze also addressed the participants of the conference together with the heads of delegations from other countries. 

The Minister of Regional Development and Infrastructure of Georgia spoke about the full compatibility of the global goals of sustainable development of water resources and equal access to drinking water with the plans envisaged by the Vision 2030 – Development Strategy of Georgia developed by the Government of Georgia.

He noted that the goal of the Georgian government is to provide 24-hour water supply to all cities in the country in 2025, and to provide the entire population with standard water supply and water supplies in 2023.

Irakli Karseladze emphasized that in order to protect and effectively use water resources, a new bill on water resources has already been developed, which meets all European principles and requirements. He also noted that the declared priority of Georgia is to ensure full access to water resources and promote adaptation to climate changes.

Irakli Karseladze also spoke about the high rates of development of modern water systems in the country. He also emphasized the strengthening of the importance of Georgia as a middle corridor in the region and the rapid growth of the country's economy. According to him, with the construction of the East-West highway, the development of transport infrastructure, the construction of the deep-water port of Anaklia and the implementation of the Black Sea submarine electric cable project, Georgia is fulfilling the important mission of strengthening the physical connection with Europe and the energy security of Europe and the South Caucasus region. Accordingly, they increase the historical contribution of Georgia as a member of the European family for joining the European and Euro-Atlantic structures.

In his speech, the Minister thanked the international development partners for their many years of support for the development of the country's water supply and drainage systems.

The UN 2023 Water Conference will be held in New York, the USA on March 22-24. About 200 countries and various organizations participate in it. Six plenary dialogues and various events organized by the UN member states will be held at the conference. 

As part of the official visit, Irakli Karseladze will also hold bilateral meetings.