TBILISI (Armenpress)–Armenian Foreign Minister Vartan Oskanian arrived in Georgia June 27 on a two-day official visit. On the first day of his working visit–Oskanian met with his counterpart Gela Bezhuashvili.
In their welcoming remarks–the two foreign ministers expressed their shared belief that Armenian-Georgian relations–based on solid historic ties–will continue to develop in the spirit of friendship and cooperation.
The two ministers discussed bilateral issues in detail. They noted that the Armenian-Georgian bilateral agenda is a full one and their broad relationship is reflected in frequent hihg-level meetings and visits.
Oskanian spoke about the economic and political importance of the operation of the Kars-Gyumri-Tbilisi railway and its contribution to the growth of trade in the region–equally benefiting all countries.
The Georgian foreign minister affirmed that Georgia is aware of its bridging role and responsibility in the region and will continue to work for more favorable transit conditions for Armenia. He explained that Georgia–too–is interested in ensuring diversified transport routes.
On the topic of Javakhk–Oskanian stressed that the Armenian government stands prepared to work with the Georgian government to resolve the socio-economic problems facing the population.
They addressed issues of border delimitation and confirmed that there exists the political will on both sides to resolve outstanding issues and reach a mutually acceptable solution.
Oskanian briefed his colleague on the current state of the Nagorno Karabakh negotiations. In turn–Minister Bezhuashvili spoke about the negotiations surrounding Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
Oskanian also met with Georgian parliament chairwoman Nino Burjanadze–who expressed hope that Oskanian’s visit will boost bilateral ties between the two countries.
Burjanadze said there exists a good legal framework that can support cooperation between the two countries. She also emphasized Armenia’s clear-cut position in regard to Georgian-Armenian relations.
"Armenia has stressed many times that it defends Georgia’s territorial integrity–which is very important issue for us. Both Armenia and Georgia stress that conflicts must be solved exclusively through peaceful means and dialogue," Burjanadze said.
"We are happy that the people in Javakhk have proved smarter that some people predicted and did not prevent the withdrawal of the Russian base from Akhalkalaki–realizing what is good for Georgia is good for every citizen–irrespective of their ethnic belonging," she commented.
She also spoke about the Karabakh conflict–emphasizing Georgia’s good relations with Yerevan and Baku–saying Georgia wants the conflict to be resolved peacefully.
During his visit–Oskanian also visited the Armenian embassy in Tbilisi and will deliver a lecture at the Georgian Center for Strategic and International Studies before returning to Armenia.