Azernews.Az

By Jamila Babayeva

French President Francois Hollande wants Georgia and European countries to cooperate in the energy sector for 10-20 years.

Hollande made this statement at an economic forum in Tbilisi on May 13.

"Georgia does not generate energy, but it passes through the territory of your country," he said. "This is the trump card for you. This is the most important prospect and chance, which can be given to Europe for its increasing energy sources in Georgia."

Hollande believes that proceeding from this, the investment in the Georgian economy becomes important.

"I want Georgia and European countries to cooperate in the energy sector for 10-20 years," he said. "This will give an opportunity to set reasonable prices and protect the environment. For example, it is planned to hold an international conference on climate change in the future. Europe must have its own independent energy policy. This can be done with Georgia."

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili in turn said for Georgia it is really important to share distinct French business experience which is effectively using innovations and modern technologies.

"The prospect of strengthening economic cooperation between our countries will increase even more and reveal new, broad opportunities after signing EU-Georgia Association Agreement and its constituent part - Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement in June," he noted.

Garibashvili said that these new opportunities which arise within this agreement will support strengthening of Georgia-France trade and investment relationship.

During the economic forum the two countries signed several agreement regarding the economic cooperation.