US National Defense Authorization Act mentions Georgia as its partner
By Tea Mariamidze
Wednesday, June 19
Georgia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) says the United States Senate published its version of the US National Defense Authorization Bill 2020 fiscal year (NDAA FY20) which dedicates the whole chapter to Georgia-US relationship, unlike the 2019 text.
The chapter is called SENSE OF SENATE ON UNITED STATES PARTNERSHIP WITH THE REPUBLIC OF GEORGIA and according to it, Georgia is considered as an ally and partner of the US, together with the Black Sea and Baltic states, in the context of European security.
MFA reports that the document also underlines that the US continues strong and steady strategic partnership with Georgia and will significantly promote the assistance to the security of Georgia, which will strengthen Georgia's defense capabilities and interoperability with NATO forces.
The ministry says that in comparison with the 2019 Act, the 2020 Act contains stronger formulations regarding the security of the Black Sea region.
“The Senate emphasizes the importance of strengthening of cooperation with the Black Sea countries, as well as its support for Georgia’s integration with NATO, which is an important message both for our country and the Alliance,” MFA says.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the bill reaffirms the Senate's firm position on NATO's "open door" policy, as well as supporting Georgia's NATO membership, which is an important message for both Georgia and the alliance.
“Considering the national interests and security issues of Georgia by the US at the legislative level once again confirms the strong bipartisan support of the United States towards Georgia, as well as the importance of Georgia in the political agenda of the US administration,” MFA says.
Georgia was mentioned as an ally and partner of the US in 2019 US National Defense Authorization Bill as well.
