The traditional briefing of the Press Speaker of the President of Georgia began with summary of the visit of Mikheil Saakashvili to the United States. Manana Manjagaladze focused attention on two main issues regarding the visit.
“The first issue discussed was the possibility of beginning negotiations on the free trade agreement with the United States. This envisions establishing very advantageous customs conditions, which will make Georgia more attractive for investors. Additionally, this will create firm guarantees for sustainability of our economic development. The fact that there will be a new opportunity of overcoming unemployment is no less important.
The second issue is related to security and defense capabilities. As you know the leaders also focused attention on these issues during the meetings. The Presidents have decided to deepen the cooperation between the two countries in terms of defense capabilities, which means moving to a completely new level. This was once again reaffirmed in the Oval Office and I think this is very important for our country.
The President of the United States expressed full support of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Georgia, the country’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations, and the ongoing successful reforms in Georgia. He also added that in this sense Georgia is a leader in its region.
The World Bank also verifies these successful reforms in Georgia. It published a book named “Fighting Corruption in Public Services: Chronicling Georgia’s Reforms.” It is planned to translate the book in Georgian and publish it in the near future. This book will be available to the public.” – stated Manana Manjgaladze.
As the Press Speaker noted, Mikheil Saakashvili held more than 40 meetings during an intense visit to the United States. The President of Georgia met with the representatives of Congress, executive branch, the media and international organizations.
Manana Manjgaladze also spoke about the upcoming plans of Mikheil Saakashvili. According to her, the President of Georgia will continue meeting with people. As she noted, February will be very intense in this sense.
Based on the Press Speaker’s information, construction of 15 new hydro electric power plants will begin in the current month.
“The energy sphere, which began to be reformed in 2003-2004, is very important for our country. Energy independence will guarantee more development and stability. Additionally, 13,000 people will be employed in this sphere in 2012. Energy independence will help us avoid the unfortunate experience of the past. The opening of new medical facilities and clinics will continue during this month as well as presentation of new projects” – noted Manana Manjgaladze.
As the President’s Press Speaker explained, new hospitals will be opened in the Tianeti, Tsageri, and Tetri Tskaro regions in February. According to her, presentation of several new projects in the education sphere is also being planned.