**US and Georgia Working to Restart Strategic Cooperation**
Despite a history of strained relations, the US and Georgian governments are making efforts to restart their strategic cooperation. First Vice Prime Minister Levan Davitashvili said that the two sides have positions “in full convergence” and are pursuing a “positive agenda” in bilateral relations.
During his recent visit to Washington, D.C., Davitashvili met with US officials from various departments, including the State Department, Commerce, and Treasury. He emphasized Georgia’s interest in identifying mutually beneficial economic and strategic priorities with the new US administration.
“We began with the State Department because establishing clear political positions is a critical prerequisite for further cooperation, including in economic areas,” Davitashvili said. “We discussed all aspects of bilateral relations, including past tensions, but focused primarily on future cooperation.”
**Appointment of New Ambassador Still Under Review**
Davitashvili acknowledged that appointing a new Georgian ambassador to Washington has been slow due to the difficult legacy in US-Georgia relations. However, he assured that the process is progressing through standard diplomatic procedures.
“Georgia will soon have a new Ambassador to the United States and this will further strengthen bilateral relations,” Davitashvili said.
The previous ambassador, Davit Zalkaliani, resigned last December amid US criticism of the police’s violent crackdown on pro-EU protesters in Tbilisi.
**Trade Talks and Middle Corridor Development**
Davitashvili highlighted growing trade ties between the two countries, with bilateral trade turnover amounting to $2.2 billion. He stressed that Georgia serves as a regional hub for American goods entering Central Asia and the South Caucasus.
A new framework memorandum has been proposed to identify new sectors of mutually beneficial economic cooperation. The initiative aims to develop the Middle Corridor and utilize Georgia’s trade potential for American companies.
**US Sanctions Still an Issue**
Davitashvili also addressed US sanctions imposed on several Georgian officials last year, stating that they are “one of the hindering factors in relations” and need to be changed.
However, he acknowledged that the process requires time and dialogue. The US responded to the use of force against peaceful pro-European protesters by sanctioning officials from Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and placing Bidzina Ivanishvili under sanctions through its Russian Harmful Foreign Activities program.
**Commentary**
The efforts to restart strategic cooperation between the US and Georgia are a positive step towards improving bilateral relations. The meetings between Davitashvili and US officials demonstrate a willingness to move forward, despite past tensions.
However, the legacy of strained relations remains an issue that needs to be addressed. The appointment of a new ambassador is crucial in building trust and confidence between the two countries.
The development of the Middle Corridor and utilization of Georgia’s trade potential for American companies are also promising areas of cooperation.
As the process unfolds, it will be essential to maintain open communication channels and address outstanding issues, such as US sanctions. By doing so, the US and Georgia can build a stronger foundation for their strategic cooperation.
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