Saudi FA Minister pays his first official visit to Georgia
By Natalia Kochiashvili
Friday, June 21
Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al- Assaf, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia paid the first official visit to Georgia on June 19-20. This visit is special for two countries bilateral relations since it’s the anniversary date – 25 years have passed since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Georgia.
Davit Zalkaliani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia held the meeting with his counterpart From Saudi Arabia, after which, the two countries’ foreign ministers held a joint press conference.
“Saudi Arabia has always expressed its unwavering support for Georgia's territorial integrity,” - Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia David Zalkaliani said after the meeting.
As David Zalkaliani noted, the sides discussed all the main directions of cooperation.
"This visit is a clear confirmation of our will, to activate and deepen cooperation between our countries. I am glad that we had the opportunity to talk about the issues of bilateral and multilateral relations existing in the agendas of Georgia and Saudi Arabia, ” noted Georgian FA Minister.
Zalkaliani also underscored the importance of restoring historical links with Saudi Arabia.
As ministers explained, all main directions of cooperation were discussed at the meeting. It was mentioned that in terms of investment, Saudi Arabia is one of the essential countries for Georgia and among leading directions is the contacts between people. In this regard, Zalkaliani noted the growing dynamics of tourists from Saudi Arabia and direct flights.
Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Assaf also spoke of the importance of the meeting: “This visit is not only the first official visit to Georgia, but it is my first visit abroad. This underscores the importance of bilateral relations between us,” said FA Minister.
According to Al-Assaf, parties agreed to expand work to enhance relations in the field of economy. He expressed his hope for two counties to have more agreement, trade, and investment.
“We want to see more investments from business representatives of both countries. I see many potentials in Georgia and also between Saudi Arabian business circles,” explained Saudi Arabia Minister.
Within the official visit, Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al-Assaf will hold meetings with the executive and legislative authorities of Georgia as well.
It is noteworthy that in December 2018, the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was opened in Georgia.
