Meeting with Georgian Prime Minister

On September 12, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili met with Philip Reeker, the Senior Adviser for the Geneva International Discussions and the Caucasus Negotiations at the US Department of State. The conflict in Ukraine and the challenging regional and international security environment were topics of discussion. The grave circumstances in Georgia's occupied areas were also discussed.

Irakli Garibashvili emphasised the vital need for amicable dispute settlement. According to the government's statement, the significance of the Geneva International Discussions was highlighted in this context. The deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan, reached via PM Garibashvili's mediation and Philip Reeker's involvement, was also a topic of discussion. Consequently, Azerbaijan freed Armenian POWs, while Armenia gave Azerbaijan crucial maps.

The topic of Georgia's enlargement into Europe was also raised. Irakli Garibashvili said that the European Council's decision to award Georgia the European Perspective reaffirmed both Georgia's commitment to the EU and the fact that the country's destiny lies inside its borders.

Meeting with Deputy Foreign Minister

On the same day, Philip Reeker met with First Deputy Foreign Minister Lasha Darsalia. Darsalia sent his congratulations to Philip Reeker on the new position and said that the choice of such a seasoned diplomat shows the US's keen interest in Georgia and the surrounding area, notably in the Geneva International Discussions. According to the Georgian Foreign Ministry, Philip Reeker reaffirmed his government's unflinching support for Georgia's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The parties discussed a wide variety of topics pertaining to the peaceful resolution of the conflict between Russia and Georgia. They emphasised the requirement for Russia to carry out the cease-fire negotiated by the EU on August 12th and the significance of making good use of the Geneva Framework.

Moreover, Darsalia and Reeker focused on the challenging security, humanitarian, and human rights conditions in the Georgian territory under occupation throughout their talk. The parties discussed regional security concerns. The significance of the United State’s active participation in finding a peaceful resolution to the dispute between Russia and Georgia was also highlighted.