Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Monday said his country attached “great importance” to strategic partnership and friendship with China, which he said was based on mutual respect and a vision of “common prosperity and sustainable development”.
In his remarks at the China-Georgia Business Forum, Garibashvili noted the two states shared "many common features”, including a "rich history and values" that emphasised “hospitality, sanctity of family and respect for traditions”.
Like China, Georgia is one of the oldest countries with a rich history and culture. My country is strategically located at an important geopolitical crossroads, being both an integral part of the Silk Road and a connecting bridge between Europe and Asia. This unique location allowed Eastern and Western civilisations to blend together in Georgia, creating an attractive blend of cultures from these two worlds”, Garibashvili told the Forum participants.
The Government head stressed the Georgian heritage reflected the influence of different civilisations, but was “still unique”.
“These values form the essence of Georgian identity, representing the main principles that define us. By protecting them, we honour our heritage and lay the foundation for national unity and prosperity, fostering innovation and modernity”, he continued.
Garibashvili stressed raising the existing relations to the level of strategic partnership represented an “important” milestone and was paving the way for “more fruitful” cooperation between the two countries.
Last week it was a great honour to meet President Xi - an exemplary politician, a wise and visionary national leader. I would like to sincerely thank President Xi and Premier Li for their special hospitality and warm welcome”, he told the audience.
The Government head also emphasised China’s “important role” in the global economy and its “significant” contribution to the development and progress of the countries of the world, and further pointed out that “China's dynamic growth, innovation and commitment to international cooperation have made it a key partner in solving global challenges and promoting prosperity”.
I would like to emphasise that Georgia supports President Xi's global initiatives, such as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilisation Initiative. We express our readiness to strengthen cooperation within their framework”, Garibashvili noted.
“Georgia is an essential link for eight landlocked countries, facilitating seamless trade between the two continents through our Government’s support, as well as free trade agreements, human capital and regional connectivity. That is why, in recent years, my country has been perceived as a special gateway between Europe and Asia for international companies and businesses in this vast region”, Garibashvili stressed.