The agreements signed between Armenia and Azerbaijan are an important step, but it is not enough. it is necessary to strengthen each subsequent step. This was stated by the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, during a joint briefing with the Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, within the framework of his state visit to Tbilisi.
“I especially want to emphasize that Georgia plays an extremely important role. Mr. Prime Minister, you spoke about the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. The agreements we signed are an important step, but it is not enough, it is necessary to strengthen each subsequent step. These meetings and visits are aimed at achieving that goal. We started the dialogue with Armenia through the mediation of Georgia, and I am grateful to the Georgian government for this support,” he said.
Ilham Aliyev According to him, for many years, Azerbaijan has been a reliable partner for many countries and peoples in terms of ensuring energy security. According to him, today Azerbaijani natural gas is exported to 16 countries, and this export starts from Georgia.
“Today we discussed new opportunities and new investment programs both in Azerbaijan and Georgia. It is possible to consider joint investments in third countries. We discussed scale, regional security and the current situation. Today’s meeting was no exception. We also referred to the new reality created in the South Caucasus. The countries of the region must continue to be oriented towards peace, stability and security, because these principles are being violated in many parts of the world, but in our region they must remain steadfast. There should be no losses, and such events should not affect our region. We act as a region of peace, stability and cooperation,” he added.
It should be noted that earlier during a joint briefing with the President of Azerbaijan, the Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze again drew attention to the ongoing peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, welcoming it.
“Once again, we want to welcome the ongoing peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Georgia firmly supports peaceful coexistence, constructive cooperation and new initiatives in the region. If necessary, we are always ready to make our positive contribution to the development of these relations. We are ready to contribute to the dialogue and the peace process. The cooperation of our countries in the South Caucasus creates new prospects for the entire region,” Kobakhidze emphasized.
The head of the Georgian government also noted that there are global political changes, and these changes increase the importance of the “Middle Corridor”, including the Black Sea and the South Caucasus, as a strategic area.
“Our countries, as bridges connecting Asia and Europe, play a key role in terms of connectivity, and in this context we attach special importance to the development and modernization of transport and logistics infrastructure. “Georgia and Azerbaijan have repeatedly proven that they are reliable and responsible partners, including in international energy and transport projects,” stated Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.
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