Slovakia strengthens support towards Georgia

Slovakia is the latest country to express its support to Georgia’s goal of integrating with the European Union (EU) and NATO.

Slovakia’s Vice Premier and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Miroslav Lajcak voiced Slovakia’s support to Georgia during a meeting with Georgia’s Foreign Minister Maia Panjikidze today, which was followed by a joint press conference.

Lajcak is in town to open the Slovak Embassy in Tbilisi.

"I currently have the honour to open the Slovak Embassy in Tbilisi, which is an important step. Embassies are not being opened so frequently during the economic crisis. We decided to take this step because we believe in Georgia’s development as well as mutual cooperation and potential,” Lajcak said.

"We strongly support Georgia’s orientation towards the EU and NATO and appreciate the efforts and results that your country has achieved.”

Lajcak said Slovakia would support Georgia in its efforts to become more aligned with the West.

"While preparing for the NATO Summit, I would like to express my belief that the Allies will find a way to somehow confirm all the effort and commitment Georgia has implemented in the field of security. Slovakia will be one of those countries who will advocate recognition of that,” Lajcak said.

Georgia’s Foreign Minister noted Slovakia was an important partner and supporter of Georgia.

"In the process of Euro-integration we give great importance to our Slovak friends’ advice.

"I am confident that by the consistent politics of Georgia and with the support of our European friends, we will be able to implement our foreign priorities and objectives in the shortest time,” she announced.

"It should be noted that close cooperation between Georgia and Slovakia has moved into the next stage. A fully-fledged Embassy has been opened in Tbilisi, which will contribute to the strengthening of relations and to identifying new areas of cooperation,” she added.

The Slovak Embassy in Tbilisi will be officially opened by Lajcak and Panjikidze later today.

The Vice Premier of Slovakia arrived in Georgia yesterday. During his official visit, Lajcak will hold meetings with Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili and Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili.