Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that the United States of America's interest has waned in recent years, while China seeks to enhance its strategic partnership with Georgia.
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During a press conference, Kobakhidze responded to a journalist's inquiry regarding a meeting with the Chinese and then US ambassadors following his assumption of the prime ministerial position, addressing whether the government has reassessed its priorities.
“Our goals are clear. We maintain strategic partnerships with both the United States and China. Both nations are crucial strategic allies, politically and economically. Consequently, deepening these strategic partnerships in both directions is of utmost importance to us,” the Prime Minister remarked.
Kobakhidze emphasized that the relationship is reciprocal, with priorities determined through mutual agreement.
“Regarding China's stance, we observe a keen interest in deepening relations, as evidenced by tangible actions. For instance, we enjoy active trade and economic ties, with Chinese companies significantly involved in economic projects, crucial for their successful implementation. Additionally, we have inked a free trade agreement with China, which has bolstered the development of these trade and economic relations. Direct flights between Georgia and China have resumed following the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the Chinese side's swift decision to reinstate these flights.
During Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili's visit to China, he received a reception at the highest level. China's positive attitude toward our country and its eagerness to foster and deepen this strategic partnership is evident from various perspectives.
Regarding the United States, we have experienced some setbacks over the years, indicating a perceived decline in interest in our strategic partnership, which is regrettable. This was manifested in specific instances. For instance, high-level visits between the two countries have been scarce for many years, approximately 6-7 years. This lack of engagement was also reflected in protocol matters. Approximately for the past eight years, neither the president nor the prime minister has received congratulatory messages from the United States of America at the highest level. The level at which these congratulations are extended remains relatively modest. Trade and economic relations, direct flights, and visa-free travel remain areas requiring improvement. Today, I held discussions with the US Ambassador about these matters. He expressed a desire for even greater intensity in our strategic partnership,” Kobakhidze stated.
Irakli Kobakhidze, assuming the role of Prime Minister on February 8, met with the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Georgia, Chou Tsien, on February 22. The following day, he convened a meeting with the US Ambassador, Robin Dunnigan.
Georgia and China signed a strategic partnership agreement last year. In early 2024, Irakli Kobakhidze visited Beijing, engaging with representatives of the Chinese Communist Party and stressing the importance of deepening the political dimension in bilateral relations.
