YEREVAN (RFE/RL)–President-elect Robert Kocharian discussed cooperation in the field of transportation with a high-ranking delegation of Georgia’s Autonomous Republic of Ajaria–headed by Prime Minister Avtandil Gorgiladze. The two sides discussed the possibility of "more efficient use" by Armenia of Georgia’s Black Sea ports–according to the government press service. It is not clear whether any agreement was reached during the talks–as no other details are reported.
The Georgian ports of Poti and Batumi–Ajaria’s capital–play a crucial role in Armenia’s foreign trade–with most of its cargo shipmen’s to and from the outside world done through them. Kocharian was handed over a congratulatory message from Ajar leader Aslan Abashidze on his victory in last month’s presidential election. The Armenian leader was earlier congratulated by his Georgian counterpart Eduard Shevardnadze.