2014-12-09
"Very little time is left untill visa-free travel between Georgia and the EU, and we are convinced that it will encourage economic development in a new way," Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier stated at the meeting with Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Garibashvili.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier introduced his initiative on establishing a Georgian-German business forum and stated that it will support the strengthening of businesses contacts and boost additional investments as well.
Steinmeier reassured the Prime Minister of the steady support of Germany for Georgia's European path and its readiness to strengthen the political and economic cooperation between the two countries. The parties also discussed the visit of German Chancellor Angela Merkel to Georgia in the spring of 2015.
At the meeting, the German Foreign Minister also stated that Germany does not recognize the so-called agreement on Alliance and Strategic Partnership between Abkhazia and Russia.
The Prime Minister noted that the greatest importance is attached to Germany's firm position regarding the territorial integrity of Georgia, especially in light of the situation when a similar document is being prepared for the Tskhinvali Region as well.
The Prime Minister stressed the role of Germany in the economic development of and financial aid for Georgia.
The parties also discussed the progress of the reforms specified by the agenda of the EU Association and mechanisms of effective implementation of NATO substantive package.
Prime Minister's Press Service