The delegation of the State Agency for Religious Issues continues visit to the Republic of Austria. At the Federal Chancellery of the Republic of Austria, the representatives of the Agency met with head of the state structure working on religious issues – Mr. Oliver Hannahapell.

Zaza Vashakmadze, the chairman of the State Agency for Religious Issues discussed the existing religious policies and projects implemented by the Agency in Georgia.

Mr. Hannahapell has provided information on "the cult of Service" function. According to the him, the agency  started its operation in 1849 and it has important role forming  Austria's religious policy, working closely with various government agencies and the religious organizations also initiating Legislative acts in religious field. He informed Georgian side about cult building construction, funding religious organizations, religious education, religious organizations registration and other existing procedures.

Oliver Hannahpell noted that there is signed concordat between the Austrian Republic and the Catholic Church. In addition, 5 special laws are adopted with 5 religious organizations - Evangelical, Orthodox and Eastern Christian Churches, in relation to the Jewish community and there is a special law on Islam. Relationship with all other religious organizations is governed by a united law. According to today's data, there are 16 recognized religious organizations in Austria.

At the end of the meeting, the Austrian side appreciated the activities carried out by Georgian colleagues and expressed the desire and interest of close cooperation to get closer to the situation and challenges in the field of religion in Georgia. Confirmed readiness to help the Georgian side prepare for legislative initiatives at the expert level.