After the meeting in presence of delegations, Presidents Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia gave a joint press conference here on Sunday.
"You know that businessmen from Baku are working in Batumi and Batumi businessmen are operating in Baku. Ships from Batumi seaport have already departed. It is a result of cooperation between Baku and Tbilisi," said Georgian leader in his statement
The President pointed out the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan will open its office in Batumi. He added the opening would take place in the historical building. Saakashvili expressed confidence that the office would be successfully operating in Batumi.
The Georgian leader thanked Azerbaijan for meeting Georgia`s energy needs when the country faced a difficult situation during wintertime.
"Then, Azerbaijan made a very important decision and helped Georgia out during its hardship. It is a result of not only strategic partnership but also a symbol of fraternity," the President said.
President Saakashvili assured the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway would be put into operation and found the need for the Azerbaijan State Railway department to join this work.
He said Azerbaijan meets 70% of Georgia's demand in natural gas.
The Head of State noted old Soviet highways will be repaired to facilitate cargo transportation.
"Our relations have reached the highest level over recent years and we must continue it. Of course, groundwork of these relations was laid by Heydar Aliyev... These relations strengthened due to Heydar Aliyev`s strategic views, and developed even more thanks to Ilham Aliyev`s efforts "
The Georgian President expressed confidence that bilateral ties would develop even more and serve stability in the region.
For his part, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev praised construction boom and economic growth in Batumi. He pointed out Georgia is an attractive country for foreign investments.
"I am very glad that there are Azerbaijani companies among investors in Georgia. Azerbaijani companies are keen on Georgia and actively invest here. The amount of investment is increasing. Of course, first investments went to the energy sector. I hope that Azerbaijani companies will invest in other fields as well," said President Ilham Aliyev
The President noted both countries jointly implemented huge projects.
"Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan, Baku-Supsa, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzerum oil and gas pipelines not only ensure interests of Georgia and Azerbaijan but also contribute to strengthening energy security. As a result of successful implementation of these projects we embarked on the railway project," said the Azerbaijani leader.
President Aliyev also touched upon cooperation in the power industry.
"... We must look ahead, find new projects, implement them, and, thus, strengthen Georgia-Azerbaijan relations"
"I am very delighted to be on Georgian soil. I am sure Georgia will continue to successfully develop under your leadership and successfully fulfill all tasks you set. Thank you," President added.

Following the press conference, Presidents Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan and Mikheil Saakashvili of Georgia saw layouts of the present and future infrastructure projects in Batumi.

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