Türkiye, Georgia discuss regional stability and economic cooperation

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s role in regional peace efforts and economic cooperation during a joint press conference with his Georgian counterpart, Maka Botchorishvili, on Wednesday.

Türkiye’s role in Russia-Ukraine war

Speaking on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Fidan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to playing a key role in maintaining peace, supporting cease-fire efforts, and facilitating diplomatic solutions.

“Türkiye is a strong and influential country in the region. It will certainly play an important role in implementing peace, ensuring its continuity, and maintaining the cease-fire,” he stated.

Fidan also noted ongoing diplomatic engagements regarding a possible cease-fire, involving multiple international actors. He pointed out that Türkiye has continuously supported negotiations and remains active in facilitating peace discussions.

Criticism of Israeli actions in region

During the conference, Fidan addressed Israel’s recent statements regarding Syria, asserting that such remarks demonstrate a lack of commitment to peace.

“Netanyahu’s latest statements on Syria clearly show that Israel is not in favor of peace. Israel must end its regional expansionism, which it continues under the guise of security enforcement,” Fidan said.

He emphasized the importance of upholding international law and maintaining justice in all conflicts, stating that selective approaches to global crises undermine the principles of humanity and fairness.

Türkiye and Georgia’s strategic partnership

Fidan highlighted the longstanding trade relationship between Türkiye and Georgia, noting that Türkiye has been Georgia’s top trade partner for the past 16 years.

“Both countries hold a crucial position in delivering Caspian energy resources to global and European markets,” he said.

He also underlined the significance of the Middle Corridor, a key east-west transit route, in strengthening regional connectivity.

“The Trans-Caspian East-West Middle Corridor is a vital component of east-west connectivity. In this regard, we attach great importance to the full-capacity operation of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, which serves as the backbone of the corridor,” he added.

Regional security and economic development

Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, particularly in relation to the Abkhazia and South Ossetia conflicts.

He praised Georgia’s efforts to find peaceful solutions and reiterated Türkiye’s unwavering support in these matters.

The discussion also touched on the economic ties between the two nations. Türkiye’s trade volume with Georgia surpassed $3 billion last year, with both sides aiming to increase it to $5 billion.

Additionally, Türkiye expressed its support for the return of Ahiska Turks to their homeland, pledging assistance in their resettlement efforts.

Georgian FM Botchorishvili’s remarks

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili expressed gratitude for Türkiye’s support and cooperation. “Of course, we consider Türkiye an extremely important and leading country in the region,” she said.

She highlighted the significance of Turkish-Georgian economic cooperation and stressed that both countries play a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Caucasus.

She also reiterated Georgia’s commitment to NATO integration, seeking Türkiye’s continued support in this process.

In a social media post on X, she stated, “Honored to meet today with the FM of H.E. Hakan Fidan. Grateful for his generous hospitality and open discussion on important regional and global issues. Strengthening our strategic partnership and fostering political, economic and trade ties between Georgia and Türkiye is high on our agenda.”

“Looking forward to our continued cooperation!” she concluded.

Outlook for future cooperation

Both ministers acknowledged the potential for further collaboration in trade, energy, and security sectors. Türkiye, Georgia, and Azerbaijan continue to develop strategic projects aimed at regional economic growth and connectivity.

Fidan concluded by emphasizing that Türkiye remains committed to regional stability and economic partnerships. “The projects we have implemented so far are just the beginning. There is significant potential for deeper cooperation, and we hope other regional countries will also join in these initiatives,” he said.