Georgia in the U. S. policy towards the South Caucasus during the post-bipolar period

Abstract

Article studies policy of the United States towards the region of South Caucasus in particular the dynamics of foreign policy process between Georgia and the United States. It is noteworthy that development of these relations has influenced the world leader’s policy towards the region as a whole. Within this context Georgia is seen as a key element of the increasing U. S. influence in the region and the post- Soviet space. With the advent of the U. S. interest in the South Caucasus in the late 1990sbasic political principles were proclaimed, such as strengthening of sovereignty and support for independence of regional countries, resolution of territorial conflicts, and finding ways to reduce Russia’s influence in the region, as well as assistance in the process of internal transformation. The aim of the research is to analyze policy of the world leading actor towards Georgia at the beginning of the 21 st century, identify reasons for American interest in Georgia, and characterize features of cooperation within the process of its democratic transit. The article is a comprehensive study of the U. S. policy towards Georgia and factors that shape it in the context of analysis of bilateral relations’ main aspects.Thus, since the late 1990 s cooperation between the United States and Georgia has been focused on the development of its democratic institutions. Relations with the United States have been of the utmost importance to the Georgian state which needs external support. The country’s aspirations for Euro-Atlantic and European integration have been encouraged for a long time by global leader. Futher more, the geo- strategic location of Georgia and its relations with the region’s countries, what is extremely important in the implementation of regional projects, in particular energy ones, as well as the willingness to serve as a strategic foothold for the U. S. and NATO political influence in the South Caucasus. Another important aspect of cooperation between the countries is the U. S. support provided to Georgia after the Russian aggression of 2008 for the de-occupation of its territories, restoration of its territorial integrity and further strengthening of its democratic institutions.