Georgian Dream MP Givi Mikanadze has emphasized the strengthening ties between Georgia and Azerbaijan, asserting that “some” view these developments “with discontent and envy.” His comments were made during an interview published by the Azerbaijani pro-government outlet Caliber.az.
“Many countries are watching with interest how Georgia and Azerbaijan are deepening their relations in all directions. Some view this with discontent and envy, but that is their business,” said Mikanadze, who chairs the parliamentary Education, Science, and Youth Committee. He refrained from specifying who he was referring to as harboring such sentiments but contrasted their outlook by highlighting the robust cooperation between the two nations.
Mikanadze underscored the growing significance of regional cooperation, pointing to the Anaklia deep-sea port in the project in the country’s north-west as a cornerstone of economic collaboration. He noted the increasing flow of cargo from China through Georgia and Azerbaijan in 2024 and China’s rising interest in the two countries.
“We also aim to develop cooperation with Azerbaijan in maritime cargo transportation and are expanding the capacities of the Batumi and Poti ports. However, the most important project is the construction of a deep-sea terminal at Anaklia, which will have significant potential for cargo transportation. Larger ships will be able to dock there. Therefore, it is important that this cooperation is supported at all levels,” Mikanadze explained.
The MP also announced Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s official visit to Azerbaijan, scheduled for January 17. The visit, he said, will include a meeting of the two countries’ economic commissions to discuss projects slated for 2025.
“Ahead of this, we are preparing to explore specific issues regarding new bilateral projects,” Mikanadze added, emphasizing the strategic importance of these discussions.
Mikanadze was part of a Georgian delegation that visited Azerbaijan on December 25. During the visit, the delegation, which included MPs Irakli Kadagishvili and Paata Salia, met with Azerbaijani Parliament Speaker Sahiba Gafarova. Mikanadze extended an invitation for Azerbaijani MPs to visit Georgia officially.
While emphasizing the importance of the relationship with Azerbaijan, the context of Mikanadze’s remarks includes ongoing challenges to the legitimacy of Georgia’s parliamentary elections. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was among the first leaders to congratulate Georgian Dream on its electoral victory, a result contested by President Salome Zourabichvili, opposition parties, segments of civil society, NGOs, and international partners.
