Georgia's Prime Minister Pledges to Strengthen Strategic Relations with Azerbaijan
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Synopsis
On January 18, 2023, Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze visited Baku for official talks aimed at reinforcing the strategic partnership with Azerbaijan, marking his first overseas trip post-reappointment.
Key Takeaways
- Visit to Baku for strategic talks
- Focus on trade and economic ties
- Agreements on consular and transport cooperation
- Importance of the Middle Corridor initiative
- Growing energy cooperation and security
Baku, Jan 18 (NationPress) Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia, traveled to Baku for official discussions, marking his inaugural foreign mission following his reappointment. The primary focus was on strengthening the strategic alliance between Azerbaijan and Georgia.
During his visit, Kobakhidze held talks with Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov on Friday and took part in a session of the joint intergovernmental commission, which included representatives from both nations, as reported by Xinhua news agency citing AZERTAC.
The conversations centered on enhancing trade and economic relations, alongside expanding collaboration in the energy and transportation sectors. Asadov congratulated Kobakhidze on his reappointment and the establishment of a new Georgian government, emphasizing that reinforcing ties with Georgia is a vital component of Azerbaijan's foreign policy.
Several agreements were finalized during this visit, including memorandums concerning consular and transport collaboration. The leaders also toured a designated location in Baku for the future construction of a new Georgian embassy.
Subsequently, Kobakhidze met with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. At a joint press conference, he underscored that Azerbaijan ranks among Georgia's top five trading partners, reiterating his dedication to advancing trade relations. 'Azerbaijan and Georgia serve as a bridge linking Europe and Asia, and we must fully leverage this potential,' he remarked.
Aliyev emphasized the importance of regional communication initiatives, especially the Middle Corridor project. 'This initiative spans a vast area, with Georgia and Azerbaijan playing a pivotal role in connecting Europe and Asia,' he stated.
Aliyev also discussed energy cooperation, highlighting the achievements of joint oil and gas projects. 'These efforts enhance the energy security of numerous nations. Azerbaijan supplies natural gas to 11 countries through Georgia, and these volumes continue to increase,' he noted.
The day wrapped up with an extended meeting between the two leaders during a luncheon, after which Kobakhidze returned to Tbilisi.
