05 October 2001

White House Statement on Bush-Shevardnadze Meeting

The White House issued the following statement on U.S.-Georgian relations following the October 5 meeting between President Bush and Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze:

During a meeting with President of Georgia Eduard Shevardnadze, President Bush underscored the continued support of the United States for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Georgia. President Bush also thanked President Shevardnadze for Georgia's unequivocal offer of support in the campaign against international terrorism. President Bush expressed the willingness of the United States to work with Georgia to support Georgian efforts to take steps against terrorists.

Both Presidents agreed on the importance of Georgia strengthening itself internally through economic and democratic reform, and a robust fight against corruption. Progress on these reforms will maintain and strengthen the partnership between the United States and Georgia as we seek to fight terrorism, promote regional cooperation and stability, and advance Caspian energy projects.