The Messenger, Georgia
Feb 15 2007
Surge in trade underscores Georgian-Armenian cooperation
By M. Alkhazashvili
(Translated by Diana Dundua)
Data from the last three quarters of 2006 show that trade turnover
between Georgia and Armenia exceeded USD 90 million, shooting up from
the same period in 2005, the Armenian ambassador told newspaper
Svobodnaya Gruzia.
Georgian imports to Armenia surged by a staggering 154.3 percent, and
Armenian imports to Georgia increased by 119.4 percent.
"These data are really impressive, and this is the only beginning of
deep cooperation in the future between our two countries," says
Armenian Ambassador Grach Silvanian.
One of the most significant examples of the two countries economic
cooperation is the building of the new 400-kilowatt electricity
transmission line. After the constriction works are finished, the
Georgian and Armenian electrical systems will be able to work in
parallel.
Georgia and Armenia have also agreed to closely collaborate in
solving the social and economic problems existing in the Armenian
populated Javakheti region of southern Georgia. Armenia will help
restore and develop social infrastructure in the area.
The Industrialist and Entrepreneurs Union of Armenia intend to open
wholesale trade centres in Tbilisi and Batumi where Armenian
industrial and agricultural products will be sold.
The Armenian business sector is especially interested in Adjara. An
Armenian Consulate is soon to be opened in Batumi, and this city and
Armenia’s Vanadzor have recently signed a Friendship Agreement.