Liechtenstein's Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets with Georgian Counterpart Ilia Darchiashvili
By Liza Mchedlidze
Tuesday, June 13, 2023
In a significant development for bilateral ties, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Education, and Sports of Liechtenstein, Dominique Hasler, paid an official visit to Georgia, where she held fruitful discussions with her Georgian counterpart, Ilia Darchiashvili. The joint press conference following their meeting highlighted the shared commitment to cooperation, the strengthening of economic relations, and the promotion of democratic values on the international stage.
During the press conference, Minister Darchiashvili expressed gratitude for Minister Hasler's visit, emphasizing its historical significance as the first official visit from Liechtenstein to Georgia. He acknowledged the importance of Liechtenstein's support for Georgia's territorial integrity, particularly its co-sponsorship of Georgia's resolution on the status of internally displaced persons and refugees at the UN General Assembly. The minister also praised Liechtenstein's backing amidst the prevailing security challenges in the region.
Both ministers agreed that there is vast potential to deepen economic ties between the two countries. Minister Darchiashvili highlighted the free trade agreement between Georgia and the European Free Trade Association, of which Liechtenstein is a member. He emphasized that this agreement provides a solid foundation for expanding trade relations and fostering economic cooperation. Georgia's economic profile as a regional transport hub and reliable partner was also recognized as attractive to European counterparts. The ministers discussed the importance of education and expressed their intent to collaborate in this area as well.
Minister Hasler reaffirmed Liechtenstein's active support for Georgia's territorial integrity, expressing appreciation for Georgia's hospitality. She emphasized the shared values of democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights between the two countries. Minister Hasler further acknowledged the cooperation between Georgia and Liechtenstein in international and regional organizations such as the UN, OSCE, and the Council of Europe. Notably, she highlighted Liechtenstein's upcoming presidency of the European Council and expressed a desire to strengthen the deepened relationship between the two countries during this period.
Both ministers also addressed the current situation in Ukraine, condemning Russia's aggression and expressing support for Ukraine's independence and international legal principles. Minister Hasler commended Georgia for its active and constructive role in international forums and its collaboration with Liechtenstein on various resolutions.
