We have passed a long way to become a worthy partner and strong ally of the United States, – Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili made the regarding statement after the meeting with US State Secretary Mike Pompeo.

Giorgi Kvirikashvili thanked Mike Pompeo and congratulated him on his appointment as US Secretary of State.

“Let me congratulate you on your appointment, which is very important not only for the United States but for the whole world. I am convinced that your intention and enthusiasm will strengthen the US’s strong leadership in the world and will further deepen US-Georgia close partnership.

In a few days we will mark the 100th anniversary of the first Democratic Republic of Georgia. We have passed a long way to become a worthy partner and strong ally of the United States .Under the leadership of President Trump, partnership between our states has been significantly strengthened.

We see a great potential of further strengthening our relations considering the strategic interests of both countries, and today’s session gives us an excellent opportunity not only to discuss progress achieved but also to define priorities for enhancing our ties”, – Giorgi Kvirikashvili said.

As the Prime Minister noted, by the constant US support the democracy has been consolidated in Georgia, government institutions strengthened and more opportunities have emerged not only for Georgia but for the economic development of the entire region.

“We are proud that we are included in the list of world leader reformer countries, and US should be also proud for its contribution to this success. Georgia greatly appreciates the unwavering and unconditional support of the US toward the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia. US support for the peaceful resolution of the conflict with Russia is of great importance in the process of de-occupation of the Georgian territories – Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions. Our states have common goals for maintaining peace and stability throughout the world. We together continue to fight against terrorism in Afghanistan. Our bilateral and multilateral cooperation in defense sphere greatly assists Georgia’s modernization and defense capabilities”, – Giorgi Kvirikashvili stated.

According to Prime Minister, several days ago, General Curtis Scaparrotti, Supreme Allied Commander Europe of NATO Allied Command Operations visited Georgia and opened the historical program – Georgia Defence Readiness Programme (GDRP) and Combat Training Center, which moved Georgia-US  partnership to a new era, contributing to strengthening of security in the Black Sea region as well as in Europe in general.

As Prime Minister noted, with the help of the US, Georgia has become one of the most profitable countries for investment and business in the world.

“Today, when we are moving to a new stage of our relationship, we see significant potential for deepening bilateral ties.
US private investments in the projects, such as the Anaklia Deep-water Port, will further strengthen America’s strategic economic interests in the region. Georgia is an ideal base where from American business will establish its place in the entire region. Georgia is one of the few countries in the world with the necessary institutions, strategies and business environment for a comprehensive and fair trade agreement with the United States. In the case of free trade agreement between our countries, as it is obvious by the latest survey of “PricewaterhouseCoopers”, American products exports may increase by 360% during the next five years, resulting the new jobs in the US.

Mr. Secretary of State, the potential for future cooperation is greatest for both countries, and I look forward to working with you in all directions that are in the interests of American and Georgian people, ” – Giorgi Kvirikashvili said.