Georgian PM: former ‘symbol of corruption’ reopens as Kutaisi Technology Hub

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday inaugurated the Kutaisi Technology Hub in the country’s west, describing it as a future regional centre for innovation and saying the building has been transformed from a "symbol of corruption" under the previous government.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Kobakhidze said the new hub would support the Government’s goal of building a knowledge and innovation-based economy.

“I am pleased that the building, which was a symbol of corruption under the previous government, is today taking on an entirely new purpose,” the Prime Minister said.

Kobakhidze described economic development driven by knowledge and innovation as one of the Government’s top priorities, highlighting measures taken in recent years to support the technology sector.

The Prime Minister said the Government has expanded support for innovative start-ups, created a national network of technology parks, introduced preferential tax conditions for technology businesses and attracted international companies to Georgia.

He said more than 300 innovative and high-tech start-ups supported by the Government have generated over ₾800 million ($304.82 mln) in economic benefits, created employment for more than 4,000 people and helped position Georgia as one of the region’s leading technology and innovation hubs.