Georgian, Azerbaijani foreign ministers discuss strategic partnership, regional cooperation

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili on Monday met Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov in Istanbul to discuss bilateral relations, regional cooperation and joint strategic projects, Georgia's Foreign Ministry said.

The body added the talks focused on the strategic partnership between Georgia and Azerbaijan, as well as prospects for expanding cooperation across a range of sectors.

The ministers reviewed progress in political dialogue, trade, economic and investment cooperation and discussed opportunities for further strengthening bilateral ties.

The sides also highlighted the significance of the resumption of passenger rail services between the two countries, describing it as an important step in enhancing people-to-people contacts and maintaining the positive momentum in bilateral relations.

Particular attention was given to joint efforts on regional infrastructure and energy projects. The ministers underscored the importance of cooperation in developing the Middle Corridor - a trade route linking Europe and China via the South Caucasus and Central Asia - and advancing strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening regional connectivity.

The meeting also addressed cooperation within international organisations and the importance of continued mutual support on issues of common interest.

Botchorishvili and Bayramov also praised the results achieved through the trilateral cooperation format involving Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkey, describing the partnership as an important mechanism for regional collaboration.