"The strategic partnership between Georgia and Azerbaijan is truly exemplary. I am confident that our relations will develop at an even faster pace to the benefit of our countries and nations, while respecting each other's interests," stated Maka Botchorishvili, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, during a press conference held after her meeting with her Azerbaijani counterpart, Jeyhun Bayramov, as part of her official visit to Baku, Georgia's Foreign Ministry reports.
According to the Minister, the meeting with the Azerbaijani counterpart was highly significant, addressing both the bilateral agenda between Georgia and Azerbaijan and ongoing developments in the region and the wider world.
"Through our joint efforts, the cooperation between our two countries continues to expand and acquire new positive dimensions, which is crucial not only for our countries but also for the prosperity of the region," noted Maka Botchorishvili.
When discussing regional developments, the necessity of peace and stability was underscored.
"Georgia has always been, and will continue to be, committed to peace and stability in our region. It will always stand ready to foster the development of good neighborly relations between countries and to ensure sustainable peace in our region," the Foreign Minister emphasized.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of regional cooperation, drawing attention to the trilateral format between Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, which serves as an exemplary model of successful regional collaboration.
"We emphasized the significance and future prospects of joint regional transport and energy projects, with particular focus on the role and importance of the 'Middle Corridor.' Through our unified efforts, we have initiated and successfully implemented numerous projects of strategic importance, which have qualitatively enhanced the role and function of our region," stated the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
It was underscored that Georgia and Azerbaijan firmly support each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Additionally, Maka Botchorishvili addressed the challenges posed by the occupation of Georgian territories.
In discussing trade and economic relations between the two countries, it was noted that Azerbaijan has consistently ranked among Georgia’s top five trading partners in recent years. Optimism was expressed regarding the potential for further growth in trade turnover.
Both sides welcomed the 10th session of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between Georgia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, scheduled to take place on 17 January in Baku, co-chaired by the Prime Ministers of the two countries.
Attention was also directed toward active collaboration in the fields of culture and education.
Maka Botchorishvili extended an invitation to her Azerbaijani counterpart to visit Georgia at a time of their convenience.
This visit marked Maka Botchorishvili’s first official trip to the Republic of Azerbaijan in her capacity as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
