Visit to start a new initiative to develop Georgian military medical capabilities

The delegation of the Multinational Medical Coordination Centre/European Medical Command (MMCCMultinational Medical Coordination Centre /EMCEuropean Medical Command), headed by Brigadier General (MC) Stefan Kowitz, visited Georgia in the context of the Refreshed Substantial NATO-Georgia Package (Refreshed SNGP) in order to start a new initiative.

The Koblenz delegation was received by Georgia’s First Deputy Minister of Defence, Lela Chikovani, and the Deputy Chief of the Georgian Defence Forces, Brigadier General Irakli Tchitchinadze, who both coordinate the implementation of SNGP initiatives.

Support for adaptation to NATO standards

During the meetings, both sides appraised the military medical capabilities of the Georgian Defence Forces and outlined possible first steps for future plans and their development. Within the framework of the Refreshed SNGP, the MMCCMultinational Medical Coordination Centre/EMCEuropean Medical Command will support the Military Medical Capacity Development Initiative, NATO’s initiative for the development of Georgia's military medical capacities.

More than just a tent

 “This is not just about procuring medical equipment such as respirators or surgical tables. The medical capabilities we are aiming for will be built on the interaction of qualified personnel and material. Developing a new medical capability takes patience and commitment and it requires the relevant Georgian agencies to assume responsibility for the various steps of development,” said Brigadier General (MC) Stefan Kowitz of the new, interesting challenge for the Koblenz agency. During the visit to Georgia, the delegation was able to visit the medical facilities and engage in conversation with military medical personnel in charge.

Common understanding as a solid foundation for missions

The purpose of this exchange was to gain a common understanding of NATO standards as a foundation for the joint development of a project plan with the Georgian delegation. To Sergeant Jan M., who works in the department of medical logistics and is an expert for medical material, “interoperability and joint medical standards are absolutely vital. They have proven their worth in the past.” He cites NATO missions as an example of this.

Intermediate objectives ensure progress

Individual stages and intermediate objectives of the initiative were jointly determined during the visit. This approach will ensure and the efficient buildup of capabilities and targeted support by the MMCCMultinational Medical Coordination Centre/EMCEuropean Medical Command, which the Georgian side welcomes, and will drive the initiative forward.

The Military Medical Capacity Development Initiative is part of the extension of the existing Substantial NATO-Georgia Package (SNGP).

Its goal is to improve the defence and security capabilities of Georgia, strengthen resilience and improve interoperability with NATO.

by Rico Maderthoner