It is a great honor to present my country in the birthplace of ancient culture and democracy - Greece.

I am pleased to emphasize that Greece represents the country of strategic importance for Georgia.

The contacts between Georgia and Greece is known from the ancient time. Georgia, ancient Kolkheti and Iberia had a close relations with the antiquity, which has been reflected in Greek art (Myth about Argonavtos; “Medea” of  Euripides). The influence of Byzantium on Georgian culture and religion is well known. Greece, as a current EU member country is successfully pursuing the milennial relationship with Georgia. Greeks were the first Europeans to preserve written data of Georgia’s early history. Just the name of the Monastry of Iveron of Mount Athos is enough to prove the historical contacts between friendly countries.

Since 2006, our Embassy is accredited to the Republic of Croatia as well. We are especially interested in Croatia’s experience in the process of integration into the transatlantic structures, as well as in developing mutually beneficial bilateral relations in the fields of economy (tourism, transport and agriculture), defense and culture.

My country is known for its wonderful nature, beautiful mountains and seashores, unique folklore, the variety of cuisine, ancient and rich culture and famouse Georgian hospitality.

Georgian culture is developing on common European path, though still preserves its authenticity stipulated by the antique traditions. The unique Georgian alphabet, which is among the 14 alphabets of the world, was created in the 5th century B.C.

Georgia is one of the most attractive and perspective country for foreign investments in energy, agriculture and tourizm fields.

The investment in season tourism, the development of medical and business tourisms are important as well.

The development of rural tourism causes an interest. Georgian wine is very popular among consumers. Taking into consideration of the high quality of Georgian wine, it can gain access to European market. As far as Georgian-Greek relations concerns for 2009-2011 Greece will implement number of development assistance projects.

Georgia was one of the first Republics of Soviet Union, which declared independence in 1991.

Georgia was recognized as an independent country in 1992.

Georgia attaches a great importance to the elaboration and implementation of the action plan, within the frames of  ENP. Furthermore, the new initiative presented by the European Commission - “Eastern Partnership”,  is one step forward for deepening of relations between the EU and its partner countries through bilateral, as well as regional cooperation formats.

Integration with NATO represents the main priority of Georgian foreign policy. We understand, that this process needs more efforts from our side.  It is very important,  that the Allies underlined the readiness to provide further assistance to Georgia and maximize cooperation within the NATO-Georgia Commission.  The results of the NATO Anniversary Summit, April 2009 have made it clear that the Alliance and the heads of the NATO member-states unwaveringly support Georgia's Euro-Atlantic choice, its sovereignty and territorial integrity. With respect to Georgia's occupied territory, NATO consistently continues its non-recognition policy and gives adequate assessment to the challenges and threats emerged as a result of Russian aggression in the region.

We hope, that during the chairmanship of Greece in OSCE the relationship between Georgia and Greece will become more active. Greece as OSCE chair country, together with the whole intarnational community will be intensively involved in overall conflic resolution process in Georgia aimed at ensuring the lasting security in the region. On behalf of Georgian people I would like to express the sincere gratitude  toward Greece for it’s support provided for Georgia so far.

After the Russia’s open military aggression against Georgia, in August 2008, the main priority of my country is to restore its territorial integrity, and build democratic state with European values.  

I would like to present you our official web-site with the hope that all the useful information about Georgia-Greece and Georgia-Croatian raltionships and the activities of our Embassy will be interesting and comprehensive.

With best regards,

                            Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia

                           Irakli Tavartkiladze