July 20, 2009 - 16:58 AMT
Armenian delegation had final meeting with Georgian Economy Minister
During its visit Batumi, Armenian government's delegation had a final meeting with Georgian Economic Development Minister Lasha Zhvania.

Armenia is Georgia's strategic partner and friend country, Georgian official said.

According to him, parties touched upon important questions, particularly Ninotsminda-Batumi highway construction and the issue of providing extra-funding to Asian Development Bank.

"An open and speedy road is one of the serious factors promoting good circulation and tourism development. Trade circulation and Georgian export to Armenia is as important for Georgia as having a sea border for Armenia," Zhvania said, adding that Ninotsminda-Batumi highway is a very big and ambitious project.

Besides, a special group was set up for increasing work effectiveness on border checkpoints.

Ninotsminda-Batumi highway is constructed within the frames of "Millennium Fund" program. Rehabilitation of Akhaltskhe highway, a project reviewed yesterday by Armenian and Georgian Economy Ministers, is currently in process.

As noted by Georgian Economy Minister, construction work will probably continue in 2010, as there remains a 85-km. section with a very complicated relief.