Georgian Ambassador to the UK visits USW

The University of South Wales (USW) welcomed the Georgian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Her Excellency Sophie Katsarava MBE, to its Newport Campus on Monday 20 March 2023.

Newport has been twinned with the Georgian city of Kutaisi since 1989. The visit acknowledged the ties between the two cities, and was organised by the Newport-Kutaisi Twinning Association (NKTA).

As part of her visit, the Ambassador met with the University’s staff and students, as well as senior figures from Newport including the Mayor of Newport, Councillor Martyn Kellaway, and the Leader of Newport City Council, Councillor Jane Mudd. The Ambassador also met with members of the NKTA.

Jamie James, Associate Dean for the Faculty of Life Sciences and Education at USW, said: “Monday’s visit by Her Excellency marks a milestone in the work of the University, the Newport-Kutaisi Twinning Association, and Akaki-Tsereteli State University in Kutaisi, Georgia, to reaffirm our long-standing ties and to further enhance our collaborative effort, for the benefit of the cities of Newport and Kutaisi.

“I am very proud of the work undertaken by all colleagues in support of our shared goals and I look forward to a fruitful and positive relationship going forward.”

Her Excellency Sophie Katsarava MBE said: “It was my pleasure to visit the University of South Wales as part of my trip to Wales - I had a chance to meet representatives of USW who continue to support the successful links between our countries.

“Strengthening educational and cultural ties contributes to bringing our countries closer and making our friendship strong. I am grateful to USW and all our hosts in Newport for productive discussions, and I look forward to our continued cooperation.”