Aliyev highlights strong Georgia ties, $3.6bn investment and regional role

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on Monday claimed relations between Azerbaijan and Georgia were based on shared history and close cooperation, as he outlined expanding economic ties and regional cooperation during a joint briefing with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in Tbilisi.

Aliyev said the two countries were “aligned in spirit” and that their historical ties created opportunities for deeper bilateral cooperation. He added that his visit would give fresh momentum to what he described as “brotherly relations” between the two nations.

The Azerbaijani president pointed to Georgia’s economic performance, describing it as dynamic, with strong growth and a favourable investment climate for foreign investors, including those from Azerbaijan. He said Azerbaijani investments in Georgia have reached $3.6bn and noted discussions on new opportunities and potential joint projects, including in third countries.

Aliyev also stressed the importance of cooperation in energy and transport, noting that Georgia played an important role as a transit country for Azerbaijani energy exports. 

He highlighted major infrastructure projects, including the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline and the Southern Gas Corridor, as well as the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor passing through both countries.

On regional issues, Aliyev stressed the need for peace, stability and security in the South Caucasus, and said countries in the region should remain focused on maintaining these principles amid global instability. He also acknowledged Georgia’s role in facilitating dialogue with Armenia.

He added that the relationship between Georgia and Azerbaijan could serve as an example for other countries, as it was based on mutual respect and trust, and reiterated both countries’ consistent support for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.