Hungarian FM Praises Georgia's Success as EaP Leader, Distinguished NATO Ally
As part of his official visit to Georgia, Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó met with Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia.
Both sides noted that the first high-level visit to Georgia since the start of the pandemic is an important signal of how close the partnership between the countries is.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister of Georgia and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary discussed issues of bilateral cooperation and future prospects. The focus was on the country's European and Euro-Atlantic integration agenda.
Péter Szijjártó praised the successful reforms implemented by the Georgian government and noted that the country is a leader in terms of both the Eastern Partnership and NATO relations. In his words, Georgia is a clear example of what kind of alliance NATO can have with non-member states.
During the meeting, the talks focused on the success of the countries in the fight against COVID-19. The Hungarian minister noted that Georgia has very important positive results in this direction and the decisions of the country's government and the efforts of the citizens are noteworthy.
The Hungarian Foreign Minister focused on the favorable business environment in the country and the desire of Hungarian companies to operate in Georgia. The successful operation of the Hungarian company Wizz Air in the country was also stressed.
The talks touched upon the possibility of intensifying tourism between the countries as soon as possible. The sides noted that the restrictions on international travel will be eased gradually, consistently and carefully so as not to endanger the lives and health of citizens.
Péter Szijjártó reaffirmed Hungary's unwavering support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
David Zalkaliani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Natia Mezvrishvili, Head of the Government Administration, and Irakli Chikovani, Advisor to the Prime Minister on International Relations, attended the meeting held at the Government Administration.
Earlier today, the Hungarian FM met with his Georgian counterpart David Zalkaliani.
The topics discussed at the meeting included the opening of borders.
“There are many Hungarian citizens who want to come to Georgia. In order to give them this opportunity, we agreed to set up a working group to exchange information. Our friendship has deepened during the pandemic. A large number of medicines are imported to Georgia from Hungary. We want Georgia's integration into Europe to be fast. We know that Georgia is a country of very deep civilization and culture. At the same time, the Bank of Hungary has created a fund of 155 million euros, which can be spent on the territory of Georgia today," said Péter Szijjártó.
He explained that the line of credit will be used by Hungarian businessmen aiming to invest in Georgia and expressed hope that the line of credit will be fully utilized.
By Ana Dumbadze