The Parliament of Georgia, in its I reading, adopted the draft law “On Amendments to the Law of Georgia on Diplomatic Service,” which envisages the establishment of a Diplomatic Academy. The bill was passed with 79 votes in favor.

 

The legislative initiative was introduced by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Khatuna Totladze.

 

According to the draft law, a “Legal Entity under Public Law – Diplomatic Academy” will be established. The academy will operate within the governance framework of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia and will be granted the status of a higher educational institution. It will offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, as well as a one-year professional qualification enhancement course.

 

The bill also introduces a new system for training diplomatic personnel. Under the proposed changes, individuals who successfully complete the academy’s one-year qualification enhancement course and obtain the relevant certificate will be eligible for appointment to diplomatic positions in accordance with the “Rules for Serving in the Diplomatic Service.”

 

In addition, the draft law changes the rules for awarding diplomatic ranks and expands the list of senior diplomatic positions eligible to receive the rank of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.