As ANS informs, President addressed the locals in Azeri language, emphasizing the long-lasting friendship of Georgian and Azeri nations.

"Azeri nation is one of the most devoted and laborious. In the hardest days, when Russia cut natural gas supply to Georgia, our and my personal friend, Ilham Aliyev limited gas supply to Azerbaijan and shared it with us," stated Georgian President.

In his speech, Mikheil Saakashvili reiterated that state posts would be available for the Azeris who spoke Georgian.

President attended some events in Marneuli including opening of Judo sports hall and the People's Bank office there. He met local pensioners, congratulating them on the increase of pensions with 5 GEL and promised them that the government would continue increasing pensions in the future. Saakashvili also talked with the visitors of the free cafe in the region.