IRAKLI KOBAKHIDZE, Prime Minister of Georgia, said it has made tough choices to develop as a peaceful, stable and developed country while reclaiming the national pride that its 3,000 years of history deserves. Georgia has never been afraid of taking the bold action necessary to tackle unprecedented global challenges. “The ongoing war in Ukraine has caused an unprecedented level of uncertainty and a humanitarian crisis,” he said, reiterating Tbilisi’s unwavering support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. Understanding the importance of peace, Georgia has led the effort to transform the conflict-affected South Caucasus into a region of opportunities.  He welcomed the process of peaceful settlement between Armenia and Azerbaijan and particularly efforts to normalize relations with neighbouring countries. “We have been, and are, willing to provide a regional cooperation format that will support collaboration and trust-building between countries, to make sure differences are left in the past…” he said.

Georgia’s strategic location as a natural bridge between Europe and Asia makes it the shortest route between East and West. “We are a hub not only for the exchange of goods, but also for energy transit and much more,” he said, adding that Georgia ensures that seven landlocked countries of the South Caucasus and Central Asia are connected with the world via its port infrastructure. Georgia is committed to developing the Anaklia deep seaport’s infrastructure.  The country is also the single safest and most reliable transit route for goods and services.  “Our commitment to maintaining and enhancing our role as a reliable transit corridor ensures we are able to support our strategic partners in Europe with their energy security needs,” he said.  Turning to economic issues, he said that despite external shocks, the Georgian economy has experienced an average annual growth rate of 9.7 per cent since 2021.

“Thanks to macroeconomic fundamentals and fiscal discipline, the Government debt and fiscal deficit declined to 39.3 per cent and 2.5 per cent, respectively,” he said, adding that Georgia has maintained one of the lowest regional inflation rates.  Additional steps to reduce poverty and inequality is at the heart of Georgia’s socioeconomic development agenda.  In 2023, the employment rate showed significant improvement; unemployment fell to a record low of 13 per cent during the first half of 2024.  The country’s effective performance is duly reflected in international rankings.  For example, the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Survey ranks Georgia twentieth in the world and eleventh in Europe in terms of corruption control; while in terms of rule of law, Georgia ranks twenty-ninth in the world and fourteenth in Europe.  “Even though the country hosted more than seven million tourists last year, it still maintains one of the lowest crime rates globally,” he said.

Despite the fact that 20 per cent of its territories are under illegal occupation, the country continues to thrive and grow and make sure that “our children live in a better, stronger and more dignified Georgia”, he said, adding:  “We are diligent and tireless in our quest to make sure Georgia is a country that every citizen is proud of.”  Addressing people on the other side of the occupation line in the Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, he said his Government’s actions aim to help people live together one day in a united and developed country.  “On this side of the occupation line, we will always meet you with an open heart.  We have to rebuild all the broken bridges in our country,” he added.  Georgia is at a pivotal point in its modern history and aims to become even more successful.  It is optimistic it will become a member of the European Union by 2030. “The country looks ahead with a commitment to shape a prosperous community with our allies and partners,” he said.