PRESS RELEASE
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia
Contact: Information Desk
Tel: (374-10) 52-35-31
Email: [email protected]
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Georgia’s Foreign Minister Gela Bezuashvili received Armenia’s Foreign
Minister Vartan Oskanian in Tbilisi, on June 27, on the first day of
Minister Oskanian’s working visit to Georgia.
In their welcoming remarks, the two foreign ministers shared the belief that
Armenian-Georgian relations, based on solid historic ties, will continue to
develop in the spirit of friendship and cooperation.
The two ministers discussed bilateral issues in detail. They noted that the
Armenian-Georgian bilateral agenda is a full one and this broad-based
relationship is reflected in frequent and high-level visits.
The sides stressed the need to further coordinate economic and business ties
in order to encourage greater trade and more investments. They noted that
the development of economically efficient transport routes is essential for
greater economic activity. They also discussed issues related to energy
security. The two ministers explored ways to seek the assistance of
international organizations and individual countries in cross-border rural
development programs.
Armenia’s Foreign Minister stressed the economic and political importance of
the operation of the Kars-Gyumri-Tbilisi rail line, and its contribution to
the growth of trade in the region, equally benefiting all countries.
The Georgian Foreign Minister affirmed that Georgia is aware of its bridging
role and responsibility in the region and will continue to work for more
favorable transit conditions for Armenia. He explained that Georgia , too,
is interested in ensuring diversified transport routes.
In discussing Javakhk, Minister Oskanian stressed that the Armenian
government stands prepared to work with the Georgian government to resolve
the socio-economic problems facing the population of Javakhk.
They addressed issues of border delimitation and confirmed that there exists
the political will on both sides to resolve outstanding issues and reach a
mutually acceptable solution.
Regarding euro-integration processes, and specifically the European
Neighborhood Policy and deepening cooperation with NATO, they noted the
importance of coordinating efforts.
Minister Oskanian briefed his colleague on the current state of the Nagorno
Karabakh negotiations. In turn, Minister Bezuashvili spoke about the
negotiations surrounding Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
The meeting between the ministers was followed by a joint press conference.
Later on the same day, Georgia’s President Mikhail Saakashvili received
Armenia’s Foreign Minister.
On Wednesday, the Minister’s visit will continue.