Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze met with Abdulla Aripov, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Focus at the meeting was made on the positive dynamic in the cooperation, high-level dialogue, and prospects of deeper partnership between the two countries across a variety of areas. The conversation also touched on the role of the relations between sectoral institutions and the Georgia-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission for Economic Cooperation in further deepening bilateral economic ties. It was noted that Georgia and Uzbekistan are consistent trade partners, and it is important fully to tap into potential toward increasing trade turnover. Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze invited his Uzbek counterpart to pay an official visit to Georgia.

“Once again, I thank you for your special hospitality, and for your friendly attitude toward our people and delegation.

It is truly impressive to see how the relations between our countries are developing. Your country is developing rapidly. We have been impressed by the reforms and transformations carried out under your leadership in Uzbekistan. I avail myself of this opportunity to invite you to Georgia.

We attach great importance to our cooperation in a number of directions. Of course, the intergovernmental economic cooperation between our countries is very important. We are interested in further expanding the partnership between our countries.

As for investments, there is room for greater activity. Your investment environment may appeal to Georgian investors, and Georgia also may offer an interesting investment environment to potential investors. We especially prize the development of the Middle Corridor. Georgia has a strategic locations and historical ties to Europe and Asia, the West and the East.

We want to take maximal advantage of this strategic location, and the cooperation between Georgia and Uzbekistan may prove very fruitful and beneficial in this direction as well”, - said Irakli Kobakhidze.

The Prime Minister of Uzbekistan spoke about the positive dynamic in the development of Georgia-Uzbekistan relations. According to Abdulla Aripov, these bilateral ties build on the principles of mutual trust and respect, developing actively in every direction.

“Cooperation in various sectors of our economy has been massively intensified. The volume of mutual trade is increasing. Joint projects are being implemented. Cultural, humanitarian, and interregional ties are growing.

Uzbekistan is always ready for close and constructive cooperation with Georgia in all areas bilateral and multilateral formats.

The main task of our Governments today is the timely implementation of the agreements reached in the development of new proposals for the development of our relations further.

Dear Mr. Kobakhidze, I am confident that your first official visit to Uzbekistan as the Prime Minister of Georgia will serve to further strengthen the mutually beneficial relations between our countries and give new impetus to our cooperation”, - said Abdulla Aripov.