Jordan, Georgia keen to strengthen bilateral relations-envoy

The Georgian Ambassador to Jordan, Zaza Kandelaki, affirmed the “remarkable” interest shown by the Jordanian and Georgian governments to enhance the “distinguished” bilateral relations after 27 years of establishing diplomatic ties.

The envoy called on strengthening cooperation and exchanging experiences with Jordan in all fields.

Speaking during a press conference held on Saturday, on the occasion of Georgia’s National Day, the diplomat referred to the continuous coordination and consultation and mutual visits between the two countries, as the two sides support each other in international forums.

The two countries are discussing establishment of a Georgian cultural center in the Al-Maghtas area (Baptism site), which will have a “great” impact on receiving Georgian tourists and pilgrims to the Kingdom, as it will be a “major” center for cultural cooperation between the two friendly countries, according to the envoy.

Announing that 14,000 Jordanian tourists visited Georgia last year, he highlighted the importance of launching exchange of tourist delegations and encouraging tourism cooperation, especially since tourism is an important source of national income in both countries that have distinguished tourism, historical and religious heritage.

Georgia canceled the perquisites that Jordanians should obtain a visa to enter its territory, he noted.

The ambassador said more than one hundred thousand tourists and Georgian pilgrims ,who visit Jerusalem annually, could be attracted to visit Jordan and the Baptism region in particular.

The envoy nderlined commonalities between the two countries, foremost is their ” pivotal” role in achieving security and stability in the Middle East and Caucasus regions, praising the role of His Majesty King Abdullah II, his efforts and his wise policy to bring stability to the region.

On trade cooperation, the envoy said its volume is still “modest,” but there are areas and an opportunity to increase and enhance it.

An agreement has been signed with the General Department of Antiquities to start excavation operations in Jabal Shehan in Karak, the site of a Georgian church since the eleventh century, but the repercussions of the Covid-19 pandemic caused a delay in operations, he said.

Source: Jordan News Agency