China announces strategic deal with Georgia

Xi Jinping, the Chinese President, on Friday said his country would establish a strategic partnership with Georgia and bring bilateral ties to a relatively new level. 

 

In a meeting with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on the sidelines of the Summer World University Games in Chengdu, the Chinese official called Georgia a “friend” and claimed his Government’s approach to Tbilisi would remain unchanged “no matter” how situation on the international scene – on the backdrop of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict – would develop. 

 

He also said bilateral relations with Georgia had been developing “dynamically and in a healthy manner” since the establishment of diplomatic relations 31 years ago, and expressed hopes the strategic partnership would further strengthen cooperation. 

 

For his part, Garibashvili thanked the Chinese official for upgrading the ties to strategic partnership, reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to One China principle and strengthening of trade and economic ties with Beijing. 

 

He also thanked Xi Jinping for the New Silk Road infrastructure initiative and inviting him to the multi-sports event also featuring 50 Georgian students. 

 

After the opening of the sports event and holding meetings in Chengdu, the Georgian delegation will travel to Beijing for “high-level meetings”, the PM’s office said.