Minister of Foreign Affairs Anniken Huitfeldt officially opens the Norwegian Embassy in Tbilisi:
‘A clear statement of Norway’s support for Georgia’
Press release | Date: 17/10/2022 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs
‘The official opening of the Norwegian Embassy in Tbilisi today further underlines our strong support for Georgia. Our presence here is important in order to strengthen the constructive dialogue and cooperation between our two countries,’ said Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt.
The Norwegian Embassy has been in operation since 2019, but the official opening ceremony is taking place in Tbilisi today.
‘In light of the current security policy situation, diplomatic ties with countries such as Georgia are more important than ever. I look forward to further developing our bilateral relations based on shared values such as respect for human rights, democracy and an international legal order,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the re-establishment of diplomatic ties between Norway and Georgia.
Norway and the other Nordic countries are viewed as important partners for Georgia, which is seeking closer European and Euro-Atlantic integration, with EU and NATO membership as future goals. Norway’s support for modernisation and reforms within Georgia is also vital.
‘It is in Norway’s interest for Georgia to succeed in its democratic development. That is why we are also involved in projects that support these efforts,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.
Norway provides funding for a relatively extensive project portfolio in Georgia that includes activities to promote good governance, the rule of law, human rights and democratic development, development of renewable energy, women's economic participation, local self-government and inclusive education.
The Embassy is also working to promote Norway and Norwegian interests in the region, and Norway is seeking to increase trade with Georgia.
‘We consider it important to provide effective support to the Norwegian business sector and to promote good framework conditions for investment, including the rule of law, investment security, transparency and a common set of rules. It is also important that Norwegian companies take a leading role in the green transition,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.