Georgian PM: ‘Gov’t is investing heavily in infrastructure to strengthen country’s role as bridge between East, west’

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday said the Government was making major investments in infrastructure to enhance the country’s strategic role as a key transit hub connecting Europe and Asia.

Speaking in an interview with China’s state broadcaster CCTV on the programme Leaders Talk, Kobakhidze highlighted Georgia’s efforts to reinforce its participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative and to revitalise its historic function as a link between East and West.

“Georgia has historically served as a bridge between the West and the East, between Europe and Asia and in this context, we want to further strengthen our role as a connector between the two”, Kobakhidze said.

He noted that Georgia, together with China, Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, formed a promising trade and economic corridor.

“We are doing everything we can to play a strong role in the Belt and Road Initiative. Georgia’s strategic location gives it great potential and we want to fully restore our transit function”, the Prime Minister stated.

Kobakhidze highlighted that the Government was prioritising large-scale infrastructure projects to support this goal.

“We are making major investments, especially in infrastructure - in the construction of highways, seaports, airports and railways - so that Georgia can become a stronger player in terms of global connectivity”, he said.

The Prime Minister also underlined Georgia’s commitment to the development of the Middle Corridor, also known as the Trans-Caspian route, which connects China and Europe through Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

“The Middle Corridor can play a crucial role in deepening economic and trade partnerships among countries. Georgia remains a reliable partner for all its neighbours and we believe our country will continue to play a positive role in strengthening regional cooperation”, Kobakhidze said.