Georgian Dream’s Foreign Minister, Maka Botchorishvili, expressed gratitude to Hungary on Tuesday for its unwavering support of Georgia’s statehood, sovereignty, and democracy during a joint press conference with Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó.
Botchorishvili, who was making her first bilateral visit as foreign minister, noted, “I’m thrilled to begin my tenure with Hungary, a close friend and partner, particularly as it holds the EU presidency. I deeply appreciate the invitation and the consistent support Hungary has shown Georgia.” She also highlighted the visit of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to Georgia as a clear example of Hungary’s strong friendship and support.
Botchorishvili emphasized the strategic partnership between the two nations, established in 2022, which has fostered high-level political dialogue. “We are eager to continue strengthening our collaboration in all areas and expanding our cooperation,” she said.
She further discussed the upcoming implementation of a new agreement aimed at promoting and protecting investments between Georgia and Hungary, which she believes will stimulate business relations. She also stressed the importance of fostering people-to-people connections and acknowledged Hungary’s scholarship program for Georgian students as a key element in enhancing bilateral ties.
Touching on security concerns, Botchorishvili reminded that Georgia is not protected by NATO’s security umbrella and that 20% of its territory remains under Russian occupation. “In the face of these security challenges, ensuring peace and stability is critical for Georgia’s future,” she said.
She thanked Hungary for understanding Georgia’s delicate position and reiterated that Georgia’s primary foreign policy goal remains European integration, a priority driven by the country’s history, identity, and the will of its people.
“We highly value our partnership with the EU and its member states, but it is troubling when that partnership is not always grounded in mutual respect,” Botchorishvili remarked, expressing concern over the international reluctance to “legitimize the democratic choices made by the Georgian people.”
In response to the upcoming discussions on Georgia’s situation, Botchorishvili emphasized Hungary’s firm stance against sanctions on Georgian officials, stating, “Hungary has made it clear that it will veto any sanctions against Georgian Government representatives and does not believe there is any justification for such measures.”
