2016-09-29
The negotiations concerning free trade agreement were completed in a record short-term period of seven months. We are ready to sign respective agreement in the near future - the Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili stated at the celebratory reception marking the 67th anniversary of founding the People's Republic of China.
The head of the Government congratulated the People's Republic of China and the host of the event, Ambassador of China to Georgia Ji Yanchi on national holiday and elaborated on the extensive history of the two countries.
Giorgi Kvirikashvili considers that the People's Republic of China is a trusted and valued partner for Georgia.
"This year especially we have much to celebrate. In a sign of our deepening relations, we welcomed in June Mr Zhang Gao Li, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China to Georgia, the first official visit on such a high level. And of course, we have to note launching negotiations on a historic free trade agreement which is set to boost exchanges between our countries," - Giorgi Kvirikashvili stated.
Prime Minister indicated that China was already a top investor in Georgia, and Georgia was proud to be the first country in the South Caucasus to have started free-trade relations with China.
"This historic agreement will facilitate business and trade turnover in both our countries, and importantly will also benefit our citizens.
Free trade between Georgia and China will reinforce our already strong partnership in the context of the "One Belt - One Road" project, a Chinese initiative which we greatly appreciate. This modern revival of the Silk Road is already bringing our countries closer and realizing Georgia's immense potential to serve as the gateway from Europe to China and vice-versa.
It is one of our government's top priorities to continue working closely together with China in developing and realizing our shared vision of the New Silk Road," - Prime Minister stated.
Members of the executive branch of government and representatives of the diplomatic corps attended the celebratory reception marking the national holiday of China.
Prime Minister's Press Office