Georgian FM Visits Baku, Discusses Energy, Security, and Economic Cooperation
On January 16, Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov of Azerbaijan met with Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili and her delegation to discuss the political, security, economic, and humanitarian aspects of the Azerbaijan-Georgia strategic partnership.
During the meeting, Bayramov congratulated Botchorishvili on the successful parliamentary elections in Georgia and the formation of a new government. The two ministers and their respective delegations also discussed current issues on the regional agenda. They expressed satisfaction with the existing level of strategic partnership between their countries, emphasizing the importance of the political dialogue established at the highest leadership levels.
The ministers highlighted the role of close bilateral contacts, mutual visits between state bodies, and intergovernmental and interparliamentary cooperation in strengthening the partnership. They praised their cooperation in international and regional formats, noting the mutual respect for each other's legitimate interests.
Bayramov and Botchorishvili discussed large-scale projects such as Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum, Baku-Tbilisi-Kars, and the Southern Gas Corridor, which contribute significantly to economic development in the region. They also noted the recent advancements in green energy and communication projects, which will boost the global standing of both nations as key clean energy and data transmission suppliers.
Bayramov updated Botchorishvili on Azerbaijan’s efforts to normalize relations with Armenia and secure a final peace agreement, noting that such efforts aim to ensure peace and stability in the South Caucasus. However, he also expressed concerns about Armenia’s continued territorial claims against Azerbaijan, its rapid military buildup, and the potential threat to the peace process.
The ministers also discussed additional bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest. Following the meeting, they held a press conference, addressing questions from journalists.
Moreover, Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze is scheduled to visit Azerbaijan, where he will meet with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. The visit will also include a Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation session. Kobakhidze's delegation will include senior Georgian officials, such as Deputy Prime Minister Levan Davitashvili and Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili.