Georgian and Saudi Parliaments Discuss Stronger Cooperation

The Georgian Parliament Speaker, Irakli Kobakhidze, and the Speaker of Majlis Ash-Shura of Saudi Arabia, Abdullah ibn Muhammad Al ash-Sheikh, have agreed to intensify cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries at the meeting held in Tbilisi on November 1.

The parties discussed bilateral relations and high rank exchange visits. According to Kobakhidze, Saudi Arabia is a strategically important country for Georgia, as both countries are allies.

The Speakers discussed cooperation in various directions, including economic relations. According to the Arabian guest, Georgia, with its opportunities, is an interesting country for investors. They also underlined that cooperation shall further be developed in the tourism field as well.

The parties touched upon the current situation in the region, as well as security challenges. Speaker of Saudi Arabia Majlis confirmed his support to territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia.

After the meeting, the Speakers made joint statements. According to Kobakhidze, the visit of his Arabian counterpart is another step towards enhancing friendship and cooperation between the countries, where the Parliamentary Friendship Groups play the key role.

“Georgia considers trade and economic cooperation with Saudi Arabia as a priority. We have far better potential to enhance cooperation, and I hope that bilateral relations will further be intensified,” Kobakhidze stated.

He particularly noted the role of both Parliaments in mutual cooperation.

“The Friendship Groups play the key role, and we hope that activity of our Friendship Groups is just the beginning of closer relations”, he added.

Abdullah ibn Muhammad Al ash-Sheikh said that on a Parliamentary level, much more can be done for the development of relations between the two countries.

“We do our best to enhance relations, and we aim to learn what Georgia needs from us. We achieved a high level of economic relations. Firstly though, we will enhance cooperation in tourism,” he stated.

The President of Georgia, Giorgi Kvirikashvili, also hosted the Speaker of Saudi Arabia. Conversation at the meeting touched upon the intensification of bilateral and sectoral cooperation between Georgia and Saudi Arabia and advancing trade-economic cooperation.

By Thea Morrison

Edited by Tamzin Whitewood