Meeting with President of Armenia

On April 29, Mikheil Kavelashvili, President of Georgia, arrived in Armenia for an official visit, where he was welcomed by Vahagn Khachaturyan, President of Armenia, at the Presidential Residence in Yerevan.

During the welcoming ceremony, the national anthems of Armenia and Georgia were performed by a military orchestra. The presidents held a private conversation, followed by an expanded meeting with their delegations. President Khachaturyan emphasized that Kavelashvili’s visit underscored the enduring friendship between the two nations, stating, “Your visit is yet another testament to the centuries-old traditions of friendship between our peoples, formed over millennia.” He expressed confidence that their discussions would advance Armenia-Georgia relations.

President Kavelashvili thanked his counterpart for the warm welcome, saying, “This is my first visit as President, and I am delighted to be in brotherly Armenia.” He affirmed that the centuries-old friendship between their nations was exemplary and would continue to strengthen.

The presidents explored ways to deepen their multifaceted relationship, focusing on enhancing cooperation across various sectors. They stressed the importance of political dialogue and mutual trust for both countries’ stability. They also agreed on the need to promote peace and stability in the South Caucasus, emphasizing a peace-oriented agenda for regional development.

They discussed facilitating travel for Armenian and Georgian citizens, particularly through open border policies, and noted the close ties between government agencies, highlighting parliamentary diplomacy as an effective platform for strengthening bilateral relations. The historical and cultural commonalities underpinning their mutual trust and lasting partnership were underscored.

Khachaturyan praised Georgia’s mediation efforts in the South Caucasus, acknowledging their role in fostering regional trust and stability. At the meeting’s conclusion, Kavelashvili invited Khachaturyan to visit Georgia at a later date.

In a joint media statement, Khachaturyan expressed satisfaction with the growing dynamic of Armenia-Georgia relations, particularly the establishment of a strategic partnership. He emphasized mutual recognition of territorial integrity as a contributor to regional stability and peace. Khachaturyan outlined progress in political, economic, cultural, and educational cooperation.

On regional stability, he reaffirmed Armenia’s commitment to advancing the peace agenda and highlighted the finalization of the “Agreement on Peace and Establishment of Interstate Relations between the Republic of Armenia and the Republic of Azerbaijan.” He expressed hope for a comprehensive peace agreement with Azerbaijan.

Khachaturyan thanked Georgia for supporting the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace process, acknowledging its efforts in creating trilateral cooperation platforms and joint economic projects. He expressed confidence that the Armenia-Georgia partnership would continue to grow for the benefit of both nations and the region.

Meeting with Prime Minister

On the same day, Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan hosted President Mikheil Kavelashvili and his delegation at the Government of Armenia during Kavelashvili’s official visit.

Pashinyan warmly welcomed the Georgian delegation and congratulated Kavelashvili on his election as President of Georgia, wishing him success for the benefit of Georgia, bilateral relations, and regional stability. He highlighted the strategic partnership, stating, “We deeply value our relations with Georgia and have elevated them to a strategic partnership.” Pashinyan emphasized that shared interests should form the foundation of their relationship, aligning with the South Caucasus’ long-term development goals.

Kavelashvili expressed gratitude for the hospitality, noting, “It is an honor to visit Armenia for the first time as President of Georgia.” He underscored the long-standing friendship, stating, “Our nations have lived side by side for centuries, with a friendship spanning over 3,000 years, which is exemplary worldwide.” Kavelashvili emphasized further developing the strategic relationship, referencing the strategic agreement signed the previous year. He supported the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement, expressing hope for its signing and lasting regional peace and stability.

The meeting focused on Armenia-Georgia cooperation in economy, tourism, infrastructure, education, and other sectors. Both sides recognized the importance of high-level visits and active dialogue in enhancing cooperation. The discussions underscored the critical role of the Armenia-Azerbaijan peace agreement in ensuring long-term regional peace and stability.

Meeting with Catholicos of All Armenians

Catholicos of All Armenians Garegin II received Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili at the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin during his official visit to Armenia.

Welcoming Kavelashvili to Armenia and the Mother See, the Armenian Patriarch highlighted the enduring friendship between the Armenian and Georgian peoples. He noted that throughout history, both nations overcame numerous challenges, drawing strength from their shared Christian faith and values, which preserved their national identity and culture.

Garegin II expressed high appreciation for the Georgian government’s mediation efforts in securing the return of 15 Armenian prisoners of war and praised their supportive approach toward the Armenian community in Georgia.