Prime Minister of Armenia Robert Kocharian began his first official visit outside of Armenia–Wednesday–with a two day trip to Georgia. The Armenian governmental delegation was met at the Tbilisi Airport by Georgian State Minister Niko Lekvishvili and other Georgian officials. Following the performances of the national anthems of the two countries– Lekgvishvili officially welcomed Prime Minister Kocharian.
The delegation was then led to the governmental residence at Grdzanis–where Kocharian and Legvishvili held discussions. At noon– Kocharian met with Georgian president Edward Shevardnadze. Armenian Ambassador to Georgia Levon Khachadrian also participating in that meeting which addressed the current status of Armenian-Georgian relations. Kocharian stated that even though Armenian-Georgian are dynamically progressing–they are not representative of the full potential as provided by the two countries’ geography–natural resources and intentions. The Prime Minister claimed that it was time to begin more practical relations–especially since close to 50 documen’s have been signed regarding this matter.
Among topics discussed were activating trade relations–as well as more efficient use of transit routes through Georgia. Both sides agreed to hold joint business forums–which provide Georgian and Armenian businessmen to interact–discuss business possibilities and find new partners. The role of the Georgian-Armenian community in the strengthening of relations was emphasized.
Participants of the meeting also acknowledged issues related to the regional conflict of Nagorno-Karabakh and Abkhazia.