On January 26, Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Garibashvili announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Armenia following a meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, the press offices of the Armenian and Georgian government reported.

During the meeting, the two prime ministers discussed various important issues concerning the bilateral relations between Georgia and Armenia, emphasizing partnership and cooperation across all domains. Additionally, they convened the 13th session of the Economic Cooperation Commission to address trade, economic matters, and overall relations between the two countries.

Garibashvili expressed satisfaction with the growing trade relations between Georgia and Armenia, noting that the trade turnover had reached one billion dollars. He highlighted Armenia as Georgia's 6th trade partner and second-largest export destination, underscoring the significance of the economic ties between the two nations. Moreover, he emphasized the importance of Armenian tourists and visitors to Georgia, contributing significantly to the country's economic development.

During a joint briefing with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of the Republic of Armenia, Garibashvili expressed optimism and hope for the ongoing dialogue between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He voiced his desire for the two nations to sign a peace agreement soon, emphasizing that such an accord would bolster the existing peace in the region and contribute to stability.

Garibashvili emphasized that Georgia has consistently supported efforts for long-term peace and stability in the region. He underscored his government's readiness to facilitate peace, highlighting the importance of ongoing dialogue between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Prime Minister reiterated his hope that both countries would soon reach a peace agreement, which he believes will significantly promote peace and stability in the region, benefiting both nations and their peoples.

Moreover, Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili emphasized the significance of maintaining economic growth in Armenia, highlighting its parallel with Georgia's own economic trajectory. He underscored the importance of sustaining this positive economic momentum in both countries.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan congratulated the Georgian people on their historic achievement of obtaining EU candidate status, highlighting its significance for Georgia and the entire region.

He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and the Georgian government for hosting the 13th intergovernmental session of economic cooperation between Armenia and Georgia in Tbilisi. Pashinyan emphasized the importance of such meetings in fostering bilateral relations and cooperation.

During the session, discussions ranged from economic matters to cultural exchanges, trade, and human relations. Pashinyan mentioned the exploration of opportunities for economic progress through the opening of South Caucasus infrastructure. He highlighted the discussions on implementing joint control models at border points to streamline customs processes and reduce time requirements.

Pashinyan also introduced the Peace Crossroads project, which is aimed at enhancing regional relations and connectivity. He emphasized the project's focus on protecting state sovereignty and promoting inclusivity, allowing all states to participate in economic endeavors. As an example, Pashinyan cited Armenia's keen interest in the Black Sea cable project, which signifies opportunities for regional cooperation and development.

Prime Minister Pashinyan emphasized the need for effective steps to conclude the delimitation of the Armenia-Georgia border, indicating a commitment to resolving outstanding issues. Moreover, Pashinyan discussed Armenia's efforts toward normalizing relations with Azerbaijan, emphasizing the importance of peace and cooperation in the region. He stated that militarization and similar measures would not contribute to improved relations, reiterating the significance of reaching a peace treaty based on public principles.

In conclusion, Pashinyan expressed gratitude for the warm reception and cooperation extended by Prime Minister Garibashvili and his delegation. He affirmed a joint resolution to protect, maintain, and deepen legal relations between Armenia and Georgia, emphasizing mutual understanding as the guiding principle in addressing any challenges along the way.

Interestingly, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili extended expressed regret over not being granted the opportunity to meet and properly host leaders of friendly nations within the framework of their visits to Georgia. President Zourabichvili highlighted the lack of notification from relevant agencies regarding high-ranking visits, meetings, or events in the country.

Regarding Zourabichvili's statement about not being allowed to meet and host visiting leaders, Gia Volski, the First Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, asserted that there was no violation of the Constitution in this instance. He criticized Zourabichvili for what he described as her own violation of the Constitution, referencing a conclusion issued by the Constitutional Court. Volski emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional principles and avoiding actions that may contravene the country's legal framework.