Armenia and Georgia Explore Enhanced Bilateral and Regional Cooperation
On July 3, during his official visit to Tbilisi, Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan met with Georgian Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili. The meeting commenced with a private discussion between the ministers, followed by an extended session. They deliberated on their countries' strategic partnership agenda, bilateral and multilateral cooperation, and regional developments. After the meeting, both ministers addressed the press.
As part of his visit, Minister Mirzoyan laid a wreath at the "Heroes Square" memorial complex where the national anthems of Armenia and Georgia were played.
Mirzoyan underscored the significance of Georgia receiving EU candidate status in his remarks, emphasizing its positive implications for regional dynamics. He also highlighted Armenia's evolving partnership with the EU, aiming to explore new horizons together. Regarding regional matters, he reaffirmed Armenia's commitment to normalizing relations with neighboring countries, including Turkey and Azerbaijan, and expressed readiness to implement agreements towards establishing diplomatic ties and opening borders.
Mirzoyan discussed the ongoing border delimitation process with Azerbaijan, citing Armenia's constructive approach towards achieving a peace treaty. He noted Armenia's proposal to unblock transport infrastructure between Armenia and Azerbaijan under the "Crossroads of Peace" initiative, highlighting its potential economic benefits and contribution to regional peace.
Later, Minister Mirzoyan met with Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili and First Vice-President Giorgi Volsky. They reviewed bilateral agenda items and regional stability issues, emphasizing the longstanding Armenian-Georgian friendship and the growing strategic partnership. Discussions encompassed deepening cooperation across various sectors, enhancing people-to-people contacts, and the role of parliamentary diplomacy.
Mirzoyan also met with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional security. They explored opportunities for further collaboration on multilateral platforms and the importance of regional economic and transport channels.
Throughout the meetings, Minister Mirzoyan reiterated Armenia's commitment to fostering peace and stability in the South Caucasus, emphasizing the potential of initiatives like the "Crossroads of Peace" project to facilitate sustainable regional development.