Trump Signs Defense Bill Which Considers Georgia as US Partner

The President of the United States Donald Trump has signed the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act, where Georgia is mentioned as a US ally and partner.

The measure signed by Trump will boost military pay by 2.6%, the largest hike in nine years.

Georgia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) reports that the act also expresses support to Georgia’s NATO membership.

“According to the Act, Georgia, in the context of European security, along with the Black Sea and Baltic states, is considered as an ally and partner of the US,” the ministry says.

It also added that Section 1248 of the law refers to the retention of Russian aggression in Europe (EUROPE IN RUSSIAN AGGRESSION AGAINST ENHANCING DETERRENCE ON SENSE OF SENATE).

The subcontinent states that strengthening defense capabilities of US allies and partners in Europe is a key national interest of the US and serves to fulfill its obligations under the North Atlantic Treaty and is a complex strategy for retaining Russian aggression. This subsection also contains important messages related to Georgia.

“The document says that in Europe, in order to strengthen the US allies and partners, the US Secretary of Defense, along with the Secretary of State and the US command in Europe, should promote the security of Georgia, including stepping up its self-defense, which will strengthen Georgia's defense capabilities and make it more compatible with NATO forces,” the MFA explained.

The document also emphasizes the importance of expanding the frequency, scale and scenarios of NATO and other multinational format exercises in the Black Sea region with the participation of Georgia and Ukraine.

“Considering the national interests and security issues of Georgia at the legislative level once again confirms the importance of Georgia in the political agenda of the US administration, "the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

By Thea Morrison

Photo source: ABC News