On 3-5 of May GUAM Secretary General paid working visit to Georgia.
On the meeting with GUAM National Coordinator, Deputy Foreign Minister Mr. David Jalagania wide range of cooperation in GUAM format were discussed with the main focus on the process of implementation of GUAM projects. The Sides exchanged views on the Agenda of next GUAM CNC meeting.
On the meeting with First Vice-Prime Minister, Minister of Regional Development and Infrastructer Mr. David Tkeshelashvili issues of GUAM transport cooperation were discussed. The significance of GUAM Transport Transit Corridor was underscored, as well as necessity for development of trans-border transport interaction and better complementarity of national transport infrastructure development programs. The Sides assessed as very important next Meeting of Transport Working Group, scheduled for the end of May in Baku.
On the meeting with Minister of Energy Mr. Alexander Hetaguri ongoing cooperation in the energy sector was discussed. The Sides underscored the importance of alternative energy sources and energy efficiency projects. They welcomed readiness of Japan to cooperate with GUAM on energy efficiency agenda. The Sides exchanged views on the level, timing, venue and Agenda of next GUAM Energy Working Group meeting.
On the meeting with Minister of Economic Development Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili issues of GUAM cooperation in trade and tourism sectors were discussed. While assessing the functioning of GUAM Free Trade Zone as quite positive, the Sides emphasized the necessity to better utilize its instruments and legal mechanisms in order to create for entrepreneurs and investors more attractive business environment. The GUAM cooperation in tourism sector was praised. The goal of attracting additional 1000 tourists from Japan in 2011 was evaluated as realistic. The Sides welcomed developing synergy tourist operators’ interests, as well as good interaction of public and private agencies. The Sides assessed as very important next Meeting of Tourism Working Group at Ministerial level, scheduled for June in Baku.
