Georgian PM, Turkish President review “strategic ties”, economic projects

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on February 23 discussed the “strategic partnership” between their countries and economic projects in the South Caucasus region.

Describing the PM’s reception in Ankara as “warm”, Revaz Javelidze, the head of the Georgian Government Administration, said that Garibashvili had once again offered his condolences over the recent devastating earthquake in Türkiye that killed more than 43,000, Agenda.ge reports.

Met w/president @RTErdogan today in 🇹🇷. Reaffirmed 🇬🇪’s solidarity and strong support to 🇹🇷 and its people in this difficult time. 🇬🇪 is ready to further provide support. We remain committed to 🇬🇪-🇹🇷 strategic partnership & benefits it brings to our countries and the region. pic.twitter.com/ih91fG8P5G

— Irakli Garibashvili (@GharibashviliGe) February 23, 2023

Pointing to “intensified” economic cooperation between the states, Javelidze noted the officials had agreed to boost the trade turnover to $3 billion in recent years, with 2022 data reaching the figure. 

The discussion also included the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and its impact on the region, Javelidze added. 

The Georgian delegation is scheduled to visit the city of Antakya, in the country’s southern Hatay province that was worst-affected by the 7.8 magnitude earthquake, on February 24. They will meet Georgian rescue professionals who have been engaged in relief operations since the first day following the disaster.