Georgian FM says trilateral format enables coordinated work on shared interests

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili on Monday said the trilateral cooperation format involving Georgia, Turkey and Azerbaijan provides an opportunity for the three countries to work in a coordinated manner on issues of common interest.

Speaking at a joint press conference following the 10th trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers of Georgia, Turkey and Azerbaijan in Istanbul, Botchorishvili said the gathering reaffirmed the close political dialogue, mutual trust and strategic partnership between the three countries.

"Today we gathered not only as representatives of three states, but as partners united by a common vision of peace, prosperity and development," Botchorishvili said.

She noted that Georgia, Turkey and Azerbaijan have for years served as an example of successful regional cooperation based on equality, mutual respect and shared interests.

According to Botchorishvili, the partnership has produced a number of major infrastructure, energy and transport projects that are important not only for the three countries but for the wider region.

"The trilateral format has become one of the most effective and successful mechanisms of regional cooperation," she said.

Botchorishvili said the ministers discussed regional and international developments, existing challenges and prospects for expanding cooperation. The three sides also signed a joint declaration outlining the main directions of future cooperation.

She noted that Turkey and Azerbaijan are Georgia's largest trading partners and that cooperation between the countries spans political, economic, transport, energy, defence, cultural and technological sectors.

The Minister said particular attention was given to regional security and peace, stressing that sustainable peace and stability in the South Caucasus are essential for both regional development and broader international security.

Botchorishvili welcomed “positive dynamics” in relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan and expressed hope that the process would contribute to lasting peace in the region.

She also welcomed progress in the normalisation of relations between Turkey and Armenia.

"Georgia is ready to continue contributing to the strengthening of peace, stability and constructive cooperation in the region," Botchorishvili said.

The Foreign Minister also raised the issue of Russia's occupation of Georgia's regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, describing the situation in the occupied territories as a security challenge for both Georgia and the wider region.

Bochorishvili thanked Turkey and Azerbaijan for their continued support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.