Georgian senior MP meets US Deputy Assistant Secretary, discusses strategic partnership, regional security

The Chair of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, Nikoloz Samkharadze, met with US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Brendan Hanrahan, in a discussion described as constructive and cordial.

Speaking after the meeting, Samkharadze said the talks covered a broad range of issues of mutual interest, including what he described as “value-based alignment” between the Georgian government and the new US administration.

Samkharadze noted the sides discussed Georgia’s security challenges, including threats stemming from Russia’s occupation of Georgian territories, as well as broader regional developments and their implications for Georgia’s security environment.

The meeting also addressed prospects for a new strategic partnership agreement between Georgia and the United States. Samkharadze said Georgia had reaffirmed its readiness to begin work on a renewed framework aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and delivering mutual benefits.

Among economic and connectivity issues, the parties discussed the development of the Middle Corridor transit route, including what Samkharadze referred to as the “Trump Route.” 

He stated that Georgia viewed the initiative not as an alternative to the Middle Corridor or Georgia’s transit role, but as a complementary component.

The discussion further covered potential investment by American companies in Georgia.

Samkharadze described the meeting as “very interesting and productive,” adding that dialogue on the outlined issues would continue.