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It supports peaceful conflict resolution in Georgia and the establishment of international security mechanisms in Abkhazia and Tskhinvali. It also calls for the safe and dignified return of internally displaced persons and refugees, all of which is seen as important for lasting peace and security on the ground.
As for specific steps to be taken, the bipartisan bill requests from the US secretary of state and other relevant bodies the submission of a report to the House the Senate reviewing US security assistance to Georgia. It should include “an assessment of Georgia’s capabilities to defend itself, including a five-year strategy to enhance Georgia’s deterrence, resilience, and self-defence capabilities”.
The legislation also aims to “enhance the capabilities of Georgia to combat Russian disinformation and propaganda campaigns intended to undermine the sovereignty and democratic institutions of Georgia, while promoting the freedom of the press”.
According to the bill, the US Trade Representative “should make progress toward negotiations with Georgia to enter a bilateral free trade agreement”.
2.2​ ​Strategic partnership agreement signed by Georgia and UK
Georgia’s Foreign Minister David Zalkaliani and UK counterpart Dominic Raab on October 21 signed an agreement to ensure that the trade and political relationship between the two countries remains strong after the UK leaves the EU, the UK Embassy in Tbilisi announced.
The deal, formally known as the UK-Georgia Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, is the first such trade continuity agreement struck by the UK and an Eastern European country.
It replicates the comprehensive market access for trade in goods and services that the UK is presently party to as a member of the EU.
Trading under the terms outlined in the agreement, rather than on World Trade Organisation terms, will ensure British businesses and consumers benefit from continued preferential access to Georgia after the UK departs the European bloc.
“The signing of this agreement gives British exporters and consumers the certainty they need to continue trading freely with Georgia, as the UK prepares to leave the EU. It underlines the significance of our strong ties with Georgia and will ensure that our political and trade relationship continues to flourish,” Raab said.
“The UK Government is committed to developing both our political and trading relationship with Georgia. This agreement will ensure minimal disruption for businesses and consumers in both our countries as we prepare to leave the EU and usher in a new phase of cooperation between our two nations,” UK International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said.
“The signing of the Strategic Partnership and Cooperation Agreement between Georgia and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland will
7​ GEORGIA Country Report​ November 2019 ​ ​www.intellinews.com