Another “meeting” of Karasin-Abashidze – talks in an online format

Abashidze-Karasin “meeting” –the talks  were held in an online format on 21st of May. According to the Georgian government, both of the nations foreign relations and transport agency representatives  took part in discussing trade, economic, transport and humanitarian relationships.

   “At the beginning of the meeting, Zurab Abashidze focused on the difficult situations in Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, the deterioration of security and humanitarian conditions and the cases of human rights violations. In particular, the need for urgent release of all Georgian citizens in illegal detention was stressed. In this context, it was noted that the Geneva International Talks between Georgia and Russia are the main format for discussing security and humanitarian issues.

    It was noted that in January-April 2021, positive dynamics  in trade relations between the two countries,was observed compared to the same period last year. Trade turnover increased by 20% and amounted to 476.21 million USD. In particular, the export of Georgian products increased by 27% and amounted to 159.61 million USD, while imports increased by 17% and amounted to 316.60 mln. USD. Freight shipments have also increased. The process of overcoming the decline caused by last year’s pandemic shock is underway. The talks also focused on resolving property issues.

   The focus was on protecting the interests of companies involved in trade and transportation and solving problems. It was noted that the ongoing infrastructure works in the vicinity of the Kazbegi-Larsi border checkpoint and access roads required contacts between experts from the two countries.

 The talks also touched upon the 2011 Agreement between the Government of Georgia and the Government of the Russian Federation on the Basic Principles for Customs Administration and Trade Monitoring Mechanisms. Both sides expressed readiness to help the jobs of expert level work teams and the implementation of the agreements.
    The date of the next Prague format meeting will be specified later on” – said the information