Fiji Georgia sign visa free agreement

A great milestone achievement has been made in the bilateral relations of Fiji- Georgia after the two nations officially signed the visa free agreement yesterday that will significantly boost the opportunities in areas of trade, investment, tourism and forge stronger diplomatic ties for the progressive development of both the nations.

The official signing coincided with the political consultations held between Fiji’s Minister for Defence, National Security and Foreign Affairs, Hon. Inia Seruiratu and the Georgian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Alexander Khvtisiashvili.

Minister Seruiratu said the visa free agreement signing reflects on the commitment by Fiji and Georgia to take their bilateral relations to greater heights. It will not only allow the citizens of Fiji- Georgia to travel with much ease but it will enable the two nations to capitalise on the untapped opportunities through enhanced engagements in various sectors including the business and investments.

Minister Khvtisiashvili said that the visa free agreement will expand platforms for Fiji-Georgia to maximise collaboration in the developmental sectors. He said there is huge potential for the two nations to strengthen partnership in areas of business, trade, tourism and economic investments particularly given Georgia’s position as the hub between Europe and Asia.

The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia also updated the Fijian side on the situation in Georgia’s occupied territories.

It was also highlighted that strong relations between Fiji-Georgia has culminated into provision of scholarships for the Fijian students. The first batch of 6 Fijian students who have taken their medical qualifications at Tbilisi State Medical University through the Georgian scholarships offered to them through Fiji-Georgia collaborations have testified to the remarkable training and expertise they have acquired over a period of 6 years.

The students have returned to Fiji last week and are looking forward to join Fiji’s health workforce and contribute towards the enhancement of Fiji’s health services. While meeting Minister Khvtisiashvili and Minister Seruiratu at the official program yesterday, the Fijian students have conveyed their sincere appreciation and gratitude to Fiji and Georgia for their partnership which has empowered them with the opportunity to accomplish their career aspirations, which they said they wouldn’t have been able to achieve, had it not been for the scholarships.

Georgia has reaffirmed its support to provide more Fijian students with the scholarship programs which will be broadened in the areas of medical studies and business studies as well.

Fiji and Georgia are also keen on exploring the possibilities of their collaborations into areas of Defence and Peacekeeping along with the people to people links and sports diplomacy.