Turkish, Georgian foreign ministers discuss regional economic, political issues

Anatolia news agency
10 Mar 05

Ankara, 10 March: “Turkey attaches importance to solution of problems
like Abkhazia and South Ossetia within the political and territorial
integrity of Georgia through peaceful ways,” said Turkish Foreign
Minister Abdullah Gul on Thursday [10 March]. Gul met his Georgian
counterpart Salome Zourabichvili in Ankara.

Gul told reporters after the meeting: “We attribute importance to
economic development of Caucasia region. We have many joint projects
with Georgia. We are planning to open Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline
this year.”

“We also believe that Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum Shah Sea natural gas project
will be completed successfully. All these show that not only political
but also economic cooperation have been developed,” he added.

“Investments of Turkish businessmen in Georgia increased. We encourage
Georgian businessmen to invest in Turkey as well. Trade volume between
Turkey and Georgia is also increasing,” said Gul.

Meanwhile, Zourabichvili said: “Turkey supports Georgia in every
area. We think Turkey’s EU membership is necessary for the region.”
“We have discussed the problems of Black Sea region during the
meeting. Recent developments in Ukraine make Black Sea more important,”
said Zourabichvili.

“Another connection between Turkey and Georgia is investments.
Political support which Turkey gave to Tbilisi in Georgia-Russia
dialogue is very important for us,” added Zourabichvili. He noted,
“Turkey supported us regarding the withdrawal of Russia from military
bases in Georgia.” When asked what the conveniences which Georgian
government provides for investments of Turkish businessmen in Georgia
are, Zourabichvili said: “We applied several reforms not only for
Turkish but also for all businessmen. Some laws are changed, and visa
regime facilities are on the agenda.” Zourabichvili added: “Intense
efforts for flights between Turkey and Batumi have been continuing.”
Upon a question, Zourabichvili said: “There is no demand of help
regarding problems between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and Turkey and
Armenia. However, we have good relations with these countries. If
there is such a demand, we may act as a mediator.”

On the other hand, prior to the news conference, Gul and Zourabichvili
signed a protocol on the agreement for fight against terrorism and
organized crimes among Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan. The protocol
targets closer cooperation of mechanisms of parties especially
against human smuggling as well as increase in the cooperation among
non-governmental organizations, security organizations, academicians,
institutions and peoples.