President Trump signs US defence bill including cooperation with Georgia

United States President Donald Trump has signed the National Defence Authorisation Act for Fiscal Year 2020, which includes cooperation with Georgia.

The bill, which was introduced to Senate on June 11 was signed on December 20.

Russia's violations of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia and Ukraine and its ongoing destabilising and aggressive behaviour, has undermined peace, security and stability in Europe and beyond", the bill says.

It also underscores that Georgia and Ukraine are "allies and partners" of the US and NATO in Eastern Europe.

The White House released a video saying that with President Trump's signature, the bill "crosses the finish line":

Author of the bill Senator James Inhofe, who is also the chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a statement saying the bill will "build a stronger, safer America and keep us ahead of our strategic competitors: China and Russia".

President Trump has been a tireless champion of our Armed Forces, and I thank him for his leadership and for signing this important legislation quickly", he stated.

LIVE: @POTUS Trump delivers remarks at the Signing Ceremony for the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2020. https://t.co/yoxTIsbaT0

— Department of Defense ???????? (@DeptofDefense) December 21, 2019