30th anniversary of US-Georgia diplomatic relations

After decades of fighting for freedom and sovereignty, the United States was among the first nations to recognize our independence on March 24, 1992. Ever since that day, the United States has stood with us as our most steadfast partner and reliable friend. Today, the Georgia-U.S. relationship is as strong as ever, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili stated during today’s festive reception held on behalf of the Head of Government, at the State Palace of Ceremonies, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Georgia and the US.

Irakli Garibashvili thanked US Ambassador Kelly Degnan, all diplomats, Defense Forces members, and the US Embassy’s staff, who have, over the years, contributed to the continually growing US-Georgia partnership.

“Ambassador Degnan, Ambassador Coleman, diplomats and employees of the U.S. Embassy, members of the Government of Georgia, ladies and gentlemen,

It is my honor and privilege to address you all on behalf of the Government of Georgia and Georgian people on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States of America and Georgia.

Let me begin by stressing that humanity is witnessing tragic and consequential actions orchestrated by the Russian Federation in Ukraine. The war has shaken not only regional, but also global security, stability, and peace. For our nation, which experienced its own Russian invasion back in 2008 and 20% of our sovereign territory remains occupied, let me be clear, there is no alternative to peace. Georgia, understanding the atrocities that come with war, from the very first days has been demonstrating full support and solidarity with the Ukrainian people and state. Today, like never before, international cooperation and a consolidated approach are crucial to preserving the international rule-based order as we know it. 

After decades of fighting for freedom and sovereignty, the United States was among the first nations to recognize our independence on March 24, 1992. Ever since that day, the United States has stood with us as our most steadfast partner and reliable friend. Today, the Georgia-U.S. relationship is as strong as ever and we are grateful to you, Ambassador Degnan and to all diplomats, defense officers, and U.S. Embassy employees who have served this immense cause and championed our ever-growing partnership over the years.

Although geographically distant, we share common bonds and shared values. We continue to strengthen our relationship by working closely together, whether on the battlefields of distant lands or in working to strengthen my country’s democratic institutions, defense capabilities, and economic growth. Thanks in large part to U.S. support and generous assistance throughout our 30 years of partnership, Georgia today is a well-functioning democracy, with an open, vibrant economy that is firmly on the path of European and Euro-Atlantic integration,” Irakli Garibashvili emphasized.

The Prime Minister singled out the fact that USAID, since inception, has allocated over 1.8 billion USD to Georgia and the Georgian people. The Head of Government thanked USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman and the organization as a whole for everything that the American people have done for Georgia’s development.

“Our friendship is based on shared values and common interests, and we are absolutely committed to further enhancing this robust partnership between our countries across all areas of cooperation. Georgia remains a loyal friend and reliable ally for the United States of America in our region and beyond. Georgia has been at the forefront of the fight for democratic values and global security, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with American troops in the most inhospitable hot spots around the world. Georgians take pride in our role as an indispensable partner within the Black Sea security framework. We greatly appreciate America’s steadfast support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country, and our European and Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

In the years ahead, we aim to deepen the value-based process of Georgia’s European and Euro-Atlantic integration and continue to strengthen our democratic institutions and rule of law. Advancing Georgia on the NATO membership path is the most viable solution to the extremely challenging security environment Georgia and our Allies face in the region. 

I would like to reaffirm Georgia’s unshakeable commitment to stand with our most important friend and strategic partner, the United States of America. Together we will defend democracy and freedom around the world, and we are grateful for your immense contributions to our partnership. 

I am confident that the adversity we face today will only strengthen the bonds between our nations and create a more resilient and comprehensive partnership between our two great nations. Once again, I congratulate our two countries during this remarkable occasion – the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States of America and Georgia.

God Bless America! God Bless Georgia!” Irakli Garibashvili stated.

The event’s participants observed a moment of silence to honor the memory of those fallen in the fight for Georgia’s and Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

The guests were also addressed by Georgia’s Vice Prime Minister/Foreign Minister David Zalkaliani, US Ambassador to Georgia Kelly Degnan, and USAID Deputy Administrator for Policy and Programming Isobel Coleman.

 

The reception was attended by Georgia’s Cabinet Members and representatives of the US Embassy.