Georgian FM highlights “genuine momentum” in relations with Hungary

Georgian Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili on Friday said recent years had “produced genuine momentum” in the country’s relations with Hungary, in comments at a press briefing with his Hungarian counterpart Peter Szijjártó in Budapest.

Commenting after the two officials held face-to-face and extended format discussions, the Georgian FM said the two countries had begun to “make significant progress” towards widening ties by establishing the framework of the strategic partnership, the Georgian foreign office said.

Our connections are stronger than ever. We regularly exchange high-level meetings. During our meeting we elaborated on how to strengthen partnership in a variety of fields, ranging from close political dialogue to robust cooperation in trade, economy, connectivity and many other areas. Hungary has the position that it’s an ardent supporter of Georgia’s priorities, which we deeply appreciate”, Darchiashvili noted.

The sides also signed an agreement on mutual promotion and protection of investments, which the Minister said would “facilitate greater opportunities in our trade and economic cooperation”.

The Georgian top diplomat also highlighted the European Council’s decision to grant Georgia the EU candidate status had moved its relations with the bloc to a “new strategic level” and “firmly anchored” the country's future, adding accession to the EU remained “one of the key foreign policy goals” of his Government.

My country’s European track is irreversible. We continue working to take the necessary reforms process forward in line with the joint commitments, including the nine steps [_], as well as the implementation of the [2014-signed] Association Agreement. It is crucial to maintain effective communication and dialogue with all our colleagues and the EU in order to have frank and open exchanges. Only by doing so, we can overcome differences and progress towards our common goal”, he said.

We also discussed a wide range of common priorities that are going to bring more stability and prosperity to Europe. Georgia remains a highly reliable security ally for the European Union, contributing to the security and stability of our partners, and in this heavily contested region our major goal is to promote Georgia’s role as a stronghold of regional stability, democratic development and cooperation”, the official added. 

Darchiashvili also pointed out his Government welcomed Hungary’s “active engagement” in strengthening Black Sea connectivity, adding he believed Georgia’s initiatives such as the Black Sea submarine cable and fibre optic projects could offer “effective solutions for ensuring energy independence and full security”.

He also said initiatives could bring about viable alternative transportation routes, especially in the “current grave geopolitical environment”.