Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili Meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, August 18, 2023
The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Gharibashvili, engaged in a meeting with Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of the State of Israel. The discussions took place in both face-to-face and extended formats.
According to the press service of the Prime Minister of Georgia, the two leaders deliberated on the primary avenues of collaboration between their respective countries across various domains. They also explored the potential for further enhancing their ongoing cooperation.
Gharibashvili highlighted that Georgia and Israel possess significant experience in productive cooperation. He emphasized the necessity of deepening this existing friendship and partnership, underlining the consistently high level of relations between the two nations.
"The discussions encompassed collaboration in the economic realm. The Prime Minister underscored the dynamic growth of trade and economic ties between the countries. Negotiations concerning a free trade agreement are scheduled to commence next year, signaling a significant upgrade in the partnership's quality.
Within the context of the Joint Economic Commission, the meeting explored novel approaches and possibilities for identifying new areas of future cooperation. They acknowledged the favorable progress in the sphere of tourism cooperation.
Global security challenges and the broader international landscape also formed part of the deliberations," reported the Prime Minister's press office.
Gharibashvili extended an invitation to Benjamin Netanyahu to visit Georgia.
During their face-to-face meeting, Benjamin Netanyahu expressed that Israel and Georgia enjoy a strong bond.
"Mr. Prime Minister, I am pleased to welcome you here. Israel and Georgia share a deeply warm relationship. Our connection spans back around 2,500 years, or perhaps even 2,600 years. Jewish communities have resided in Georgia, and many Jews migrated to Israel from there. They serve as a living bridge between our countries. I myself had the opportunity to visit Georgia. I am aware that we can elevate our relations to even greater heights, and I welcome this opportunity during your visit. Once again, I extend my welcome to Israel! We look forward to your next visit to Tel Aviv and Jerusalem! As the saying goes: 'Next time we will meet in Jerusalem!" stated the Israeli Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister of Georgia conveyed that the Jewish community has consistently experienced friendship, unwavering support, and a sense of belonging within Georgian society.
"Mr. Prime Minister, I extend my gratitude for welcoming me and my delegation. It is a privilege and joy to be here. I always approach my visits to Israel with delight, and as you mentioned, we share a special bond and friendship with Israel and the Jewish people. The Jewish community has consistently felt the warmth of friendship, unwavering support, and a sense of belonging within Georgian society. Thus, I am pleased to be here. Thank you very much!" expressed Gharibashvili.
