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Foreign Relations Of GeorgiaGeorgia's location, nestled between the Black Sea, Russia, and Turkey, gives it strategic importance far beyond its size. It is developing as the gateway from the Black Sea to the Caucasus and the larger Caspian region, but also serves as a buffer between Russia and Turkey. Georgia has a long and close relationship with Russia, but it is reaching out to its other neighbors and looking to the West in search of alternatives and opportunities. It signed a partnership and cooperation agreement with the European Union, participates in the Partnership for Peace, and encourages foreign investment. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom all have embassies in Tbilisi, and Germany is a significant donor. Georgia is a member of the United Nations, the OSCE, the CIS and the Council of Europe. Because of its strategic location it is in both the Russian and American spheres of influence. In common with many ex Soviet republics it is both influenced by and fearful of its larger neighbour. The invitation of US troops into the country caused tension with Moscow. The Russian government also believes that Georgia is being used by Chechen terrorists. The American government has interests in an oil pipeline passing through the country. Former president Eduard Shevardnadze attempted to balance these competing demands. The new leadership is much closer to the United States. Disputes - international: none Illicit drugs: limited cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy, mostly for domestic consumption; used as transshipment point for opiates via Central Asia to Western Europe and Russia - See also : Georgia
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