The signing of a major package of agreements between Georgia and Azerbaijan became possible following Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's visit to Tbilisi and his talks with Georgian Dream founder Bidzina Ivanishvili. This was announced by Georgian Economy Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili.
According to the minister, following the meeting, the parties began to move toward formalizing the agreements "very effectively and quickly."
Kvrivishvili emphasized that the signed documents are of "historic" significance for both countries, and that the energy component of cooperation is particularly important for Georgia.
The minister noted that the new agreements should strengthen the country's energy security, and Azerbaijan will maintain its status as Tbilisi's strategic partner in this area.
On May 18, Georgia and Azerbaijan signed a package of agreements in the fields of energy and transport. These include a 20-year intergovernmental agreement on electricity supplies and transit, as well as a two-decade extension of the contract for Azerbaijani gas supplies, in effect since 2003. Georgian authorities believe this will help ensure a stable public gas supply.
Also, starting May 26, passenger rail service between the capitals of Georgia and Azerbaijan, which was interrupted almost six years ago, will be restored. A train will run between Tbilisi and Baku every day.
