A bilateral meeting was held between the Presidents of Georgia and Latvia in Riga today. The leaders spoke about the relations of the two countries and common European values. Mikheil Saakashvili once again noted that Latvia is Georgia’s strategic partner and sharing its experience is very important for the country. In his turn Andris Berzins, once again expressed support of Georgia’s territorial integrity and declared backing of Georgia in the process of integrating in the Euro-Atlantic structures.

“We support Georgia’s territorial integrity and the process of integration in NATO and the EU. We consider Georgia’s aspiration to become a NATO member absolutely realistic” – stated Andris Berzins after meeting with Mikheil Saakashvili.

After the closed bilateral meeting ,the sides signed an economic cooperation agreement.

The meeting held at the Palace ended with an award ceremony – the President of Latvia decorated Mikheil Saakshvili with the Order of the Three Stars.

Later today the leaders of the two countries made joint statements and answered the questions of the media representatives. The President of Georgia spoke about the progress in the process of Euro Atlantic integration, the declaration passed at the Chicago Summit, and also touched on the importance of signing the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the European Union.

An expanded meeting of delegations headed by the two Presidents also took place at the Riga Palace. The sides discussed bilateral cooperation, and prospects of joint infrastructural and cultural projects.

Later today meetings were held at the Saeima of Latvia. Mikheil Saakashvili met with the Chairwoman of Saeima of Latvia, Solvita Aboltina. At the end of the day, the President of Georgia participated in a reception dedicated to the Independence Day of Georgia and addressed the attending audience in Latvian.

Mikheil Saakashvili also attended the event jointly held by Forbes and the Georgian Investment Agency, where Georgian and foreign businessmen were gathered. The guests were mainly interested in the economic reforms successfully implemented in Georgia.

The President of Georgia has arrived in Latvia on a two day official visit. The Head of State will hold other meetings in Riga tomorrow and attend scheduled events.