Erdogan: Georgia, Turkiye cooperate for peace both in region and beyond

“Turkey and Georgia are not just neighbouring countries, but two strategic partners united by deep historical, cultural and human ties,” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared at a joint briefing with Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili.

According to the Turkish President, “Georgia and Turkiye cooperate for peace and development both in the region and beyond.”

“We are two countries participating in the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars project, which is the backbone of the Middle Corridor, and we have strategically important oil and gas pipelines.

Our country has been Georgia’s largest trading partner for years, which is yet another confirmation that our relationship rests on solid foundations.

We have substantial trade turnover. In recent years we had $3 billion, and we are moving toward new targets, such as $5 billion.

Thousands of Turkish construction companies operate in Georgia. Companies show great interest in Georgia’s investment and infrastructure projects. In addition, 300 major construction projects worth billions have already been implemented.

During our discussions, we also exchanged views on developments in our region and globally. I want to use this opportunity to emphasise our firm support for Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Specifically, through the trilateral mechanisms that we have with Georgia and Azerbaijan. In foreign policy and security policy, we contribute to strengthening regional peace and security.

I also conveyed to President Kavelashvili our expectations regarding the dignified and safe return of Meskhetian Turks to their places of residence.

Our football teams will meet on September 4th – this will be a qualifying match. This will further deepen the friendly relations between our countries,” Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated.

Prepared according to simultaneous interpretation.