Georgia-US Cooperation in Security and Defense Moves to New Phase

TBILISI – “Georgia and the United States (US) cooperation in the defense and security field is moving to a new phase,” Georgia’s Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili stated at the meeting with the US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, Michael Carpenter, in Tbilisi on December 6.

Georgia’s Governmental Administration reports that the sides discussed a memorandum signed on July 6 between the US Secretary of State John Kerry and PM Kvirikashvili in Tbilisi.

The memorandum envisages greater military and security cooperation between Georgia and the US, enhanced information sharing, and help with building the defense capacity such as improving combat readiness and supporting defense procurement.

PM Kvirikashvili stated at Tuesday’s meeting that Georgia’s government appreciates the US support in strengthening the country's security and defense capabilities.

Georgia’s participation in various international peacekeeping missions was also underlined.

The US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense in turn thanked Georgia’s PM for the country’s contribution to global security.

Particular attention was paid to the implemented reforms and future plans of the Georgian government.

Michael Carpenter will also meet Georgia’s President and other officials to discuss the financial assistance from the US towards Georgia, included in the US National Defense Authorization Act, adopted on December 3, which says that Georgia is a valuable partner and the US will continue its support to increase Georgia’s self-defense capabilities.

By Thea Morrison