FM Botchorishvili: Georgia's proper positioning globally to be important, same as deepening relations with friends and partners
FM Botchorishvili: Georgia's proper positioning globally to be important, same as deepening relations with friends and partners

Georgia’s Foreign Minister, Maka Botchorishvili, underscored the significance of the country’s proper positioning in the international arena, emphasizing the need for strong relationships with friends and partners to accomplish Georgia’s objectives. During her visit to Azerbaijan, FM stated that the Georgian government places great emphasis on deepening and strengthening relations with each partner and friend.

According to Botchorishvili, the primary goal of the Georgian government is integration into European and Euro-Atlantic structures. The Georgian Dream party, which came to power in October’s parliamentary elections, has prioritized this objective in its government program, with foreign policy aligning with the country’s priorities in the international arena.

“Given the country’s priority of integrating into European and Euro-Atlantic structures, we believe that significant work is required in this direction,” Botchorishvili said.

“Georgians are aware that the country is an EU candidate, and we need to take crucial steps towards this goal to achieve EU membership,” she emphasized that this is a joint effort between Georgia and the EU, necessitating cooperation from both sides.

At a press conference in Azerbaijan, Botchorishvili also discussed regional cooperation and highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with neighbouring countries. She pointed out that Georgia has a trilateral cooperation format with Azerbaijan and Turkey, which she views as essential for Georgia. Additionally, she emphasized the significance of Georgia’s strategic partnership with Armenia, noting that Georgia remains committed to promoting peace and stability in the region.

“We will continue to foster peace and stability in our region,” Botchorishvili stated. “If our country’s potential is utilized in this effort, we are always prepared to play a positive role in the region. Today, I am in Azerbaijan, and I am pleased to have this opportunity to reaffirm Georgia’s commitment to peace and stability in our region.”

Furthermore, Botchorishvili stressed the importance of restoring Georgia’s territorial integrity, a priority that will be pursued through peaceful means. To achieve this goal, she emphasized the significance of Georgia’s international partnerships, which will play a crucial role in restoring territorial integrity and promoting sustainable peace in the region.

“Strategic partnerships will undoubtedly be a priority in this regard, particularly with the United States, where we hope to reset our relations in a positive context and explore new avenues for deeper cooperation,” Botchorishvili stated.

“We also value our partnership with China, which is vital for our country’s role in fostering connectivity between the East and West. This is a crucial partner for us, and we will devote considerable attention to it,” Bochorishvili concluded, adding that proper positioning of Georgia in the international arena is essential and that she will prioritize the protection of Georgia’s national interests in her capacity as Foreign Minister.

“To achieve this, we need friends and partners. We place great importance on further deepening and strengthening relations with each partner and friend so that our goals are accomplished. One of our goals is for Georgia to become a more significant player in the middle corridor, utilizing the potential available to us. From this perspective, the relationship with Azerbaijan holds particular significance for me. I will be pleased if our bilateral ties continue to flourish during my tenure as minister,” Botchorishvili said.