The Chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, Sofio Katsarava and the Chair of the EU Integration Committee, Tamar Khulordava held the meeting with the Ambassador of Finland, H.E. Arja Makkonen.

S. Katsarava invited the Ambassador on the occasion of the events dedicated to the 25^th anniversary of diplomatic relations of Georgia to be held on June 20 in the Parliament attended by all representatives of diplomatic corps. The parties discussed foreign political priorities, EU integration of Georgia, ongoing reforms and Parliamentary activity. Particular attention was attached to bilateral relations and inter-Parliamentary cooperation.

According to the Ambassador, Finnish Parliament set up the Finland-Georgia Friendship Group. “The Finland-Georgia Friendship Group in the Parliament of Finland will allow more approximation and enhancement of bilateral relations. We can cooperate with Finland as with one of the most successful countries in various spheres, including education”, - S. Katsarava stated.

MPs spoke about the Parliamentary oversight and Constitutional reform.

S. Katsarava introduced EUAA implementation, respective Parliamentary oversight and Committee activity for legislative harmonization. T. Khulordava emphasized the EaP upcoming Summit. “We need support of Finland and other European states at EaP Summit. We strive to have EU decision related to European future of Georgia be reflected in the Declaration adopted by the Summit”.

The parties touched upon Georgia-Finland business forum organized by EU-Georgia Business Council. The parties underlined economic and tourist potential of Georgia. “It is a good start for further intensification of bilateral relations in the diplomatic angle. The yesterday’s forum held in Georgia aimed at promotion of investment potential, stronger contacts between Georgian and Finnish companies and enhancement of trade relations. Stronger business contacts will facilitate to public awareness on Georgia in Finland to facilitate to tourism and economic development”.