British PM Pays Tribute to Georgia's Resistance to Russian Pressure

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has congratulated Giorgi Gakharia on his reappointment as Prime Minister of Georgia.

PM Johnson, in his congratulatory note, emphasizes the close partnership between the UK and Georgia, and reaffirms support for Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

“The United Kingdom values its close partnership with Georgia. Our shared values and common vision provide a strong platform for continued joint work on a range of issues, including defense and security challenges. I pay tribute to the courage you and your Government have shown in firmly resisting Russian pressure. The UK will continue to support strongly Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, and remains committed to supporting your NATO membership aspirations. A strong commitment to democratic values is a key underpinning of the NATO alliance. It is important that your Government continues its ongoing program of electoral reform—as a friend of Georgia, the UK stands ready to assist with this,” Boris Johnson said.

The British Prime Minister’s official note also underscores the importance of joint effort in overcoming the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Both our countries are working to overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which continues to threaten our citizens’ lives and our future prosperity. I hope that, in the year in which the UK hosts the UN’s COP26 climate change conference, the UK and Georgia can work together to put our recovery from COVID-19 on a solid foundation, including a fairer, greener and more resilient global economy. Looking ahead, there are plenty of opportunities to deepen our bilateral relationship. The UK-Georgia Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, signed in October 2019, is an important treaty that will provide the framework for our future relationship and ensure increased flows of trade and investment. The UK Government looks forward to continuing to work with you and your team and once again, please accept my congratulations and best wishes for your tenure as Prime Minister,” Boris Johnson’s official note to Giorgi Gakharia reads.