Outgoing Chinese Ambassador says it was ‘honour’ to contribute to strengthening China-Georgia ties

Outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Georgia Zhou Qian on Monday said it had been a “great honour” to contribute to the rapid development of China-Georgia relations over the past four years.

Speaking at an event marking the end of his diplomatic mission, Zhou said bilateral relations had advanced significantly during his tenure, reaching two major milestones.

“In 2023, Georgia became the first country in the South Caucasus to establish a strategic partnership with China. Last month, President Xi Jinping and Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili jointly announced the elevation of our relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening a new chapter in bilateral cooperation,” Zhou said.

The Ambassador also highlighted the introduction of visa-free travel between the two countries in 2024, which he said had led to a significant increase in passenger traffic. According to Zhou, nearly 130,000 Chinese tourists visited Georgia last year, while arrivals increased by a further 16.7 per cent in the first half of this year. He also noted the launch of the first direct flight between Shanghai and Tbilisi on 15 July.

Reflecting on his time in Georgia, Zhou said he had been deeply impressed by the country’s history, culture, hospitality and respect for traditions.

“It has been a great honour to contribute to the rapid development of China-Georgia relations over the past four years. I will always remain a friend of Georgia and continue to support the friendship between our two countries,” he said.