Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia, on Monday announced plans for the construction of a new terminal at Mestia Airport, in what he said to enhance the country’s tourism infrastructure.

Emphasizing the government's dedication to fostering tourism growth, Kobakhidze highlighted the importance of not only focusing on major international hubs like Tbilisi International Airport but also prioritizing the development of domestic airports and regional connectivity.

"With tourist arrivals on the rise and promising first-quarter statistics showing an 11 percent increase in visitors compared to the previous year, totaling over 1.3 million visitors, including one million tourists, it is imperative to bolster our infrastructure to ensure optimal conditions for visitors," Kobakhidze stated. "The forthcoming construction of a new terminal at Mestia Airport, designed to meet modern standards, underscores our commitment to facilitating internal travel, particularly from the region to other cities."

The terminal will feature amenities such as dining options, retail spaces, and essential services to enhance the passenger experience, the PM added.

Acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Economy in advancing the project, Kobakhidze expressed gratitude for their handling of the initiative, affirming that the ministry's involvement was expected to ensure the successful realization of the new terminal.