US Senate to mull free trade agreement with Georgia
The Messenger (Georgia) | January 24, 2007
US Senate to mull free trade agreement with Georgia
By M. Alkhazashvili
(Translated by Diana Dundua)
The US Senate has been discussing a resolution to create a free trade policy and deepen their government’s relationship with Georgia in a proposal authored by Senator Richard Lugar.
According to Lugar’s resolution, "the US supports regional development, economic integration and democracy in the South Caucasus. The US should expand its relationship with the Republic of Georgia by commencing negotiations to enter into a free trade agreement," as quoted in Akhali Versia.
The document, which is now is being prepared for discussion and an eventual vote in the US Senate Finance Committee, also mentions that seven years ago Georgia left the Jackson-Vanik Agreement, which limited their foreign trade ability, and went on to receive WTO membership.
In a recent interview with Russian radio station Ekho Moskovy, Kakha Bendukidze, Georgian State Minister on Reforms Coordination, approved of Senator Lugar’s proposed legislation.
Georgia is also working with the EU in the interests of free trade. Bendukidze was questioned regarding the reality of Georgia’s integration into the EU. He responded that the issue demands long-term consideration and planning. (Rezonansi)
