NCSEJ leaders and member agency representatives with Georgian FM Tamar Beruchashvili, fourth from right (NCSEJ)

NCSEJ today hosted a meeting with Georgian Foreign Minister Tamar Beruchashvili, during her first working visit to the United States. Participants included NCSEJ member agencies, members of the NCSEJ Board of Governors, and representatives from the Embassy of Georgia.

Minister Beruchashvili gave an overview of Georgia's foreign and domestic policy priorities. She emphasized Georgia's Western-oriented foreign policy and spoke about the progress Georgia has achieved in its pursuit toward integration into the European Union and NATO.

Minister Beruchashvili also spoke about Georgia's commitments to reform, strengthening its democratic institutions, and increasing cooperation with the West. The Association Agreement between the EU and Georgia has opened a great opportunity for Georgia to pursue these goals.

Minister Beruchashvili highlighted existing challenges in the region amid the current crisis in Ukraine. Russia's strategy to create frozen conflicts in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, in Transnistria, and now in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions is aimed at preserving what Russia sees as its 'sphere of influence' in the region. Russia's actions, however, are threatening Europe's overall security framework, and a united response by the EU and the United States remains critical.

Minister Beruchashvili also spoke about Georgia's vibrant Jewish community and the country's close relations with Israel. Georgia and Israel have established visa-free travel, and cooperate in the areas of economy, culture, and education. The countries are currently pursuing a closer bilateral partnership, including a free-trade agreement.

Other issues discussed included Georgia's prospects for joining NATO, the current state of Georgia's relations with Russia, and issues of importance to the Georgian Jewish community.