Azerbaijan is Georgia’s “strategic partner”, “outstanding friend” - Georgian PM
Garibashvili said he had discussed the strategic partnership with Azerbaijani official, including the development prospects of the Middle Corridor, which involves the modernisation of railways, expansion and construction of ports, as well as development of roads, adding that both countries started “large-scale works” in this regard. Photo via Government Administration
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Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Sunday said Azerbaijan was a “strategic partner” and an “outstanding friend” of Georgia, in a joint press conference in Tbilisi after the face-to-face meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev earlier today.
Garibashvili noted Georgia and Azerbaijan were connected by “century-old brotherhood and friendship” and emphasised the “continual” successful high-level visits between the countries.
We have a very clear perspective, [...] We want to have a very long-term partnership and friendship with Azerbaijan. I believe in our joint vision”, the PM stressed, adding that the two countries were implementing “very important joint projects”.
Garibashvili said he had discussed the strategic partnership with Azerbaijani official, including the development prospects of the Middle Corridor, which involves the modernisation of railways, expansion and construction of ports, as well as development of roads, adding that both countries started “large-scale works” in this regard.
The construction of a new Anaklia deep sea port and East-West International Highway, as well as the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line linking Azerbaijan with Turkey via Georgia, and the modernisation of Georgian railways were also highlighted by the PM.
The Head of the Government noted Azerbaijan was “one of the major trading partners” of Georgia, and said he had reviewed cooperation in energy, transport and logistics with Aliyev. The figures for trade and cargo transportation with Azerbaijan have increased this year, Garibashvili stressed.
In his address, the PM once again congratulated the Azerbaijani President on the 100th anniversary of his late father, Heydar Aliyev, the former President, and emphasised the “legendary” person’s merits in Georgian-Azerbaijani relations. “His role is extremely important in strengthening these relationships. He laid a very great foundation”, the PM added.