In the framework of his visit to France, Minister of Defence of Georgia Irakli Alasania was hosted by his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian, reports GHN based on the Ministry of Defense.
At the meeting Georgian and French Defence Ministers discussed the prospects of deepening bilateral cooperation in the military field. Georgia's prospects for NATO membership were discussed at the meeting as well. During the talks colleagues underlined significance of the outcomes of NATO Summit in Wales.
Jean-Yves Le Drian reiterated France`s support to Georgia`s Euro-Atlantic aspirations. French Minister of Defence thanked the Georgian side for its participation in the peacekeeping operation ongoing in the Central African Republic under the auspices of EU. The sides also touched upon the regional security issues.
After the meeting Defence Minister underscored the importance of bilateral cooperation between the two countries. "Military cooperation between Georgia and France is deepening day by day. At the meeting with Mr. Le Drian we talked about our joint ongoing operation in the Republic of Central Africa and outlined how we are providing security with our joint efforts under the aegis of this operation. We also referred to military and military-technical cooperation between Georgia and France. We discussed the ways how France would assist Georgia to increase our defence capabilities and how our partner country would support Georgia to enhance interoperability that is necessary precondition for NATO membership. We agreed that it is important to continue high-profile bilateral meetings and bring Franco-Georgian relationships to the strategic level," declared Irakli Alasania.
In the framework of the visit, Irakli Alasania attended the 31st International Workshop on Global Security. Defence Minister will end his visit to France today and depart for an official visit to the Federal Republic of Germany.
