The U.S. Deputy Secretary has reiterated unwavering support for Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders
U.S. Deputy Secretary Wendy Sherman spoke today with Georgian Foreign Minister David Zalkaliani. The relevant press release was published on the official website of the U.S. Department of State.
The Deputy Secretary reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for Georgia’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. She noted the United States will continue to urge Russia to withdraw its forces to pre-war positions and comply with the 2008 ceasefire agreement.
Deputy Secretary Sherman and Foreign Minister Zalkaliani emphasized the need to uphold the right of sovereign nations to choose their own security arrangements and support Georgia and Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of continued Russian aggression, and discussed how to enhance peace and security in Europe.
D. Zalkaliani has met with the U.S. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Georgia, K. Degnan
The Vice Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, David Zalkaliani met with the U.S. Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Georgia, Kelly Degnan, on 29 December, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The sides exchanged views over the security environment in the region, the latest developments around Ukraine and Russia’s aggressive rhetoric and actions to hinder Georgia’s and Ukraine’s NATO integration process. Underlining the inadmissibility of any third party making statements to revise the Bucharest Summit decisions, as well as of any attempt to impact this process, the sides referred to Russia’s occupation and annexation of the neighbouring countries’ territories and the failure to comply with its international obligations as the major challenge currently threatening the European security architecture.
The Foreign Minister reaffirmed that European and Euro-Atlantic integration is the Georgian People’s firm choice and that Georgia will continue to use all available formats to the maximum extent possible to accelerate the process. Zalkaliani thanked the U.S. Government for its support of Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic course and for its practical and political assistance in this regard.
The sides further agreed that, given the Russian Federation’s increasingly aggressive rhetoric, it is important that Georgia and the U.S. remain in very close coordination and take concerted steps.
MFA Georgia
In the 30 years since, Georgia and the United States have grown to become steadfast strategic partners
On December 25, 1991, in his holiday address to the people of the United States, President George H. W. Bush announced the United States' recognition of Georgian independence after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
In the 30 years since, Georgia and the United States have grown to become steadfast strategic partners, cooperating across a broad spectrum of issues in the name of a Georgia and Europe whole and free and at peace.
US Embassy in Georgia
Irakli Garibashvili: Strong strategic partnership between Georgia and the US is key to regional and Euro-Atlantic security
In today's geopolitical environment, the strong strategic partnership between Georgia and the US is key to the two countries' shared interests and regional and Euro-Atlantic security, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili stated during today's meeting with US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Erika Olson. The Head of Government emphasized the unwavering bipartisan US support for Georgia enabling the country to achieve considerable progress across a variety of directions and to press on the right track toward European and Euro-Atlantic integration.
The meeting focused on the security environment and challenges in the Black and South Caucasus regions.
The Prime Minister singled out the importance of political stability in Georgia, also underlining that, now that the recent elections are over, it is crucial to concentrate on the agenda of the country's development.
Irakli Garibashvili also pointed out that Georgia remains a loyal and reliable ally of the United States in the region. The parties discussed the situation in Georgia's occupied territories and the threats posed by occupation, also the daily humanitarian problems encountered by the citizens on either side of the occupation line. Special attention was paid to the importance of ensuring peace and stability in the region. In this context, the meeting highlighted the Peaceful Neighborhood Initiative-a new peace format proposed by the Prime Minister of Georgia in the UN-and the importance of the engagement of American and European partners in this process. The American side also underscored Georgia's tremendous contribution to the recent evacuation effort from Afghanistan. The conversation also revolved around Georgia's European and Euro-Atlantic integration and the reforms implemented to that end. The Head of Government expressed hope that concrete steps will be taken in the nearest future to start the implementation of the decision of the NATO Summit in Bucharest.
The meeting at the Administration of the Government was attended by US Ambassador to Georgia Kelly Degnan and Georgian Vice Prime Minister/Foreign Minister David Zalkaliani.
Press Service of the Government Administration
Georgian people express their solidarity to the Americans and condemn this terrible terrorist act
This year is the 20th anniversary of the deadly attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on Sept 11.
The date, September 11, will forever evoke recollections of unimaginable tragedy, of lives callously lost and brutally cut short and of unspeakable horror and sorrow in the hearts and minds of all of us. We have all suffered.
We have all felt the heartbreak of loss in lives. It was a horrible realization of the depths of the hatred that a select few in the world have for the United States, and a terrible tragedy. We must never forget the depths of inhumanity to which terrorist fanatics are willing to sink in the name of their depraved cause as they seek to destroy the very principles of freedom and democracy on which this great nation was founded. America has never made a mistake in its policy.
Remember that we were attacked not for what we do wrong but for what we do right. We will not crumble under terror or tyranny! America are strong and resilient. Today is a day to remember the heroes of that day, the lives and loved ones lost, and to dedicate anew that every day we live on, we have already defeated hate. That is why each and every September 11, we as friends of the American people honor them who lost their lives that fateful day.
On this 20th anniversary of 9/11, let us never forget the nearly 3,000 Americans who lost their lives and continue to support their families. Let us also never forget the service and sacrifice of our brave first responders and servicemembers who answered the call to serve the greatest nation on earth. May God continue to bless the United States of America.”
Ilia Zukakishvili
President of the American Friendship Club
September 11, 2021 Tbilisi, Georgia.
The American Friendship Club gave a special celebration of the American Independence Day on July 4th at the State Palace of Ceremonies
In the open space of the palace of state ceremonies the festive celebration of the 4th of July of the devoted friend and strong ally of Georgia was held.
Members of the legislative and executive authorities of Georgia, representatives of diplomatic corp, busienss sector and various fields of society attended the festive party dedictaed to the 245th anniversary of signing the declaration of independence.
The open space of the palace was decorated with the colors of the USA flag. Visitors were given bracelets and badges immediately upon entering the place. Zura Khutsishvili’s band played several American jazz pieces especially for this day.
The president of the American friendship Club, Ilia Zukakishvili and her excellency, Ambassador of the U.S. to Georgia, Kelly Degnan addressed the public. Then anthems of both U.S. and Georgia were sung.
The president of American Friendshop Club Ilia Zukakishvili stated in his address speech:
The American Friendshop Club, as the organization supporting American values, has been celebrating the American Independence Day for the 17th time. Therefore, we get convinced that through its essence July 4th grants happiness to not only American people but also those who wish to be the partner of the U.S. to achieve common goals and mainitain values and interests.
At the same time I am extremely happy about the fact that we, Georgians, together with our strategic partners celebrate our common values of independce, freedom and democracy of the U.S. 
Several thousand kilometers distance Georgia from the U.S. but, despite this, celebrating the independence day of the U.S. in our country is extremely emotional since any activity related to July 4th is especially precious for Georgian people and is full of best emotions of happiness. The environment created during this special celebration gets Georgian-American frinedship which started three decades ago even closer. It was indeed three decades ago that the dynamics of the process which started then laid the foundation and determined special attitude of our nation towards American peple.
One more factor to celebrate the Independence Day in the capital city of Georgia is demonstration of the clear message of strong friendship and what the value connection between USA and Georgia is rather than just the frienship process at the level of one-off words and phrases and the intention of caring about one’s interests.
As already mentioned, July 4th is one of the best days and opportunities to send a message full of gratutude to official Washington for the good deeds is has done throughout last three decades for the state of Georgia and rigorous support of the Georgian people. The 4th of July festive mood is the reflection of the gratitude which is called rigorous Georgian-American friendship.
At the same time I consider that the format of similar events enables us to demonstrate to everyone inside or outside of the state that freedom-loving Georgian nation is devoted to the principles based on common values and a reliable partner which is obviously able to serve as the strong friend of the future.
July 4th is another clear example of the fact that fight for independence always has a point and the history of July 4th is indeed a vivid celebration of perosnal freedom and future happiness granted by God. We are proud that during 17 years together with Georgian companies we have been celebrating the existence of the idea which serves as the basis of the USA.
Therefore, once again I, as all those freedom-loving individuals, would like to once again confirm my respect towards the American people, express gratitude towards the American people and the USA government for all implemented and ongoing projects and wish to be part of the effort which will further strengthen and enhance friendship between Georgia and the USA.
Allow me to use this opportunity and express special gratitude to the Stable Partner and General Sponsor of 4th of July company PSP which has been supporting us for the last 3 years and plays a special role in organizing the U.S. independence say celebration.
It is with great pride today that I can state that in the recent period the amount of supporters of Georgian-American friendship has got further expanded which was clearly demonstrated on the banner of the event. The festive reception dedicated to the U.S. independence day was finalized with a grant firework and the ceremony of cutting the 4th of July cake.
God bless United States of America, native Americans within or outside its borders, Georgian-American friendship and all those devoted friends who shows respect to the U.S.
Happy U.S. independence day!
American Friendship Club – 8 July, 2021
Georgian Special Operations Forces are taking part in multinational exercise “Trojan Footprint”
Military servicemen of the Georgian Special Operations Forces (GSOF) are taking part in an annual exercise organized by the US Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR). Multinational exercise Trojan Footprint 21 is hosted by five countries. One unit of GSOF is attending the training in Romania and others are being trained along the US SOF military personnel.
In the framework of the exercise Trojan Footprint, the Georgian and US soldiers carried out quick response operations and were trained in ambush, raid and sustainment components. They successfully raided a building and neutralized enemy. Georgian SOF soldiers received positive evaluation from US instructors.
GSOF is taking part in the multinational exercise Trojan Footprint for the first time. The exercise provides an opportunity to enhance interoperability between the participating nations, share experience with each other and increase combat readiness. Trojan Footprint started on May 3 and will end on May 14. Ten allies and partners (USA, Georgia, Bulgaria, Germany, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Spain, Ukraine, UK) are participating in the exercise that is hosted by five nations.
Press Service of the MOD Administration
Joint statement of the Spokespersons of the EU High Representative/Vice-President and of the US Department of State on the EU mediation
After nearly six months of negotiations, the citizens of Georgia have made clear that they want the political crisis to end, and for all elected Members to work together in Parliament and address the serious challenges facing the country, including the regional challenges, COVID, and the economic crisis.
With this in mind, the European Union and the United States call on all Members of Georgia’s Parliament to sign the agreement that European Council President Michel will propose today. This is an agreement all Members can sign in good faith rather than a unilateral action that undermines the goal of a broad-based agreement.
The institutional reforms in the agreement represent important progress for Georgia’s democratic development and are of significant benefit for its citizens, helping to create a more independent judiciary, stronger electoral processes, and a Parliament that can better reflect the voices of all people of Georgia.
Accepting this compromise demonstrates courage and a commitment by all parties to put the needs of the citizens of Georgia first, ahead of the interests of any one political party.
TRADE AND ECONOMIC TIES WERE DISCUSSED IN THE FINAL PART OF THE POLITICAL CONSULTATIONS BETWEEN TURKMENISTAN AND THE UNITED STATES
On December 17, 2020, the final stage of political consultations between Turkmenistan and the United States took place in the format of a video conference.
From the Turkmen side, the meeting was attended by the heads and representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance and Economy, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection, as well as the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan. The US delegation was led by Dan Negrea, a senior State Department official.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the current level of trade-economic cooperation and exchanged views on expanding partnership in areas of mutual interest.
Speaking at the meeting, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan R.Meredov emphasized that trade-economic ties are one of the main areas of joint activities of the two countries. He spoke for the further development of partnership in investment and innovation activities, in the field of modernization of production and mutual trade. The success of the long-term work of American companies in the Turkmen market and the effectiveness of the Turkmen-American Business Council were emphasized.
The participants of the meeting listened to the presentations of the parties on the main vectors of interaction. The practical steps of Turkmenistan towards improving the investment and business climate of the country, as well as the regulatory framework were highlighted, which was confirmed by the reports of reputable international financial institutions, in particular the IMF, EBRD and the World Bank. This is also evidenced by the accession of Turkmenistan to the World Trade Organization as an observer. The activity on the economic empowerment of women in Turkmenistan was noted.
The parties spoke about the importance of the United States Agency for International Cooperation (USAID), including its role in the implementation of joint projects at the national level and within the framework of cooperation between the countries of Central Asia and the United States "C5 + 1". The importance of the Investment and Trade and Investments Framework Agreement (TIFA) was also highlighted.
During the meeting, the sides discussed the possibilities of developing cooperation in the implementation of infrastructure projects of regional and international importance. Potential directions include the creation of interregional transport and transit corridors along the East-West and South-North lines with access to Asian, European and Middle East markets, as well as the construction of the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline and other mutually acceptable projects.
The parties also talked about expanding partnerships in the field of environmental safety, including the creation of production facilities for renewable energy sources and the implementation of scientific exchanges.
Summing up the political consultations, the parties expressed satisfaction with the positive dynamics in the development of relations between Turkmenistan and the United States, and also reaffirmed their commitment to partnership in the interests of global peace, security, progress and constructive development.
U.S. Navy Warship USS Donald Cook Enters the Black Sea
BLACK SEA — The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Donald Cook (DDG 75) transited into the Black Sea in support of NATO Allies and partners, Nov. 23, 2020.
This is the seventh time a U.S. Navy ship has visited the Black Sea since the beginning of 2020. The last ship to visit the region was USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) in September. While in the Black Sea, Donald Cook will conduct routine maritime security operations that support regional stability.
“Operating in the Black Sea signifies our commitment to partners and allies in the region,” said Cmdr. Kelley Jones, commanding officer of Donald Cook. “It is an important diplomatic mission, and Donald Cook has enjoyed the hospitality of Black Sea countries many times before.”
The Black Sea is a critical waterway for maritime commerce and stability throughout Europe. The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea to work with our NATO Allies and partners, including Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, Turkey, and Ukraine. It is in the world’s best interest to maintain a stable, prosperous Black Sea region and deter aggressive actors who seek destabilization for their own gain.
Donald Cook recently began its 11th patrol of the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of responsibility in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa. The U.S. Navy routinely operates in the Black Sea consistent with international law, including the Montreux Convention.
The ship’s operations in the Black Sea strengthens interoperability among NATO allies and partners and demonstrate collective resolve to Black Sea security under Operation Atlantic Resolve.
Four U.S. Navy destroyers, including Donald Cook, are based in Rota, Spain, and assigned to Commander, Task Force 65 in support of NATO’s Integrated Air Missile Defense architecture. These Forward-Deployed Naval Forces-Europe ships have the flexibility to operate throughout the waters of Europe and Africa, from the Cape of Good Hope to the Arctic Circle, demonstrating their mastery of the maritime domain.
U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied, and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.
