On 14 January, Georgia and the United States agreed to strengthen cooperation on fifth generation wireless communications networks (5G). 

The memorandum of understanding signed between the two countries read that “5G will enable a vast array of new applications, including the provision of critical services to the public, which will benefit the citizens of the two economies.” It also noted that “protecting these next generation communications networks from disruption or manipulation and ensuring the privacy and individual liberties of the citizens of the United States, Georgia, and other countries is of vital importance.” 

The document further emphasised the importance of “developing a common approach to 5G network security and ensuring a secure, resilient, and trustworthy 5G ecosystem” as well as “the need to develop, deploy, and commercialise 5G networks based on the foundation of free and fair competition, transparency, and the rule of law.” The memorandum also underlined that the US and Georgia “seek to work in concert with each other and with other interested governments on innovation to promote a diverse and vibrant supply chain for secure and trusted next generation wireless network technologies.”   

By signing this memorandum of understanding, Georgia joined the US Clean Network program. The Clean Network program is the comprehensive approach from the administration of US President Donald Trump on safeguarding the nation’s assets including citizens’ privacy and companies’ most sensitive information from aggressive intrusions by malign actors (such as the Chinese Communist Party, according to the US Department of State). 

The US Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Keith Krach stated that by joining the Clean Network program, Georgia is strengthening its position to become a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). “Membership in the Clean Network Lines is crucial to enhancing cooperation with NATO, the EU and the Three Seas. For the US private sector, as well as for the EU private sector, this would be a signal that Georgia is a great place to invest,” he stated. Krach emphasised that funds for this program would also be available under the US International Development Finance Corporation, adding that the company is planning to open a regional office in Georgia.