Admin l Tuesday, May 09, 2017
WASHINGTON, United States – The United States and Georgia today signed an agreement to for bilateral intelligence sharing that will strengthen counterterrorism between both countries.
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili signed the U.S.-Georgia General Security of Information Agreement (GSOIA) at U.S. Department of State.
“The agreement represents a major milestone in security cooperation between the United States and Georgia. The GSOIA establishes a legal foundation for bilateral intelligence sharing and will strengthen counterterrorism cooperation between the United States and Georgia.
“This agreement will also enhance the Georgian military’s interoperability with the armed services of NATO member states. The GSOIA supports Georgia’s efforts to transform its military and paves the way for future security agreements between the United States and Georgia”, the Office of Spokesman said in a statement.
After signing the agreement, Secretary Tillerson and Prime Minister Kvirikashvili met to discuss the strong U.S.-Georgia partnership, noting that the development marks the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Secretary Tillerson thanked the Prime Minister for Georgia’s contributions to global security and commended the significant reform progress the country has made since independence.
He reaffirmed U.S. support for continued progress toward Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration. The Secretary also reiterated the steadfast commitment of the United States to Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. The leaders agreed to continue efforts to ensure Georgia’s security and prosperity.
