"Hope for the support of France in responding to the challenges posed by the pandemic," said French President Emmanuel Macron, congratulating the Georgian president on Independence Day.
"Last year, the situation in the region deteriorated again, which is a new challenge for your country. In the context of the desire of the powerful states in the region to expand their sphere of influence, Georgia was able to prove a convincing move towards democracy, rapprochement with the EU and NATO.
In this regard, I am pleased that the political forces of your country have agreed to join the compromise agreement proposed on the basis of European mediation, the various provisions of which are in the process of implementation. I know about the positive role you played in getting it and I want to congratulate you on that.
The health crisis we are in is a test for all countries. Trust me, you will always be able to count on the support of France in responding to the challenges posed by this pandemic.
As you know, 2021 is an important year in our bilateral relations, because this year marks the 100th anniversary of the arrival of Georgians deported to France after the overthrow of the first democratic republic of Georgia. I would like to pay our respects to this event of our common history, which confirms the special bond of unity, trust and friendship between our two peoples.
I also wish to resume the already exemplary French-Georgian cooperation within the framework of the Amilakhvari structural dialogue, which we opened in February 2019, but the last round of which could not be held due to the health crisis.
I take this opportunity to reaffirm France's unwavering commitment to Georgia's territorial integrity and sovereignty. Madam President, my deepest respect," reads a letter sent by Macron to Salome Zurabishvili.
