Georgian PM, Gulf Cooperation Council Chief discuss free trade deal in Dubai

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi on Tuesday discussed deepening economic ties, with a potential free trade agreement emerging as a key outcome of their meeting in Dubai.

The Government Administration said the talks focused on strengthening cooperation between Georgia and GCC member states - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah - with both sides highlighting that a future free trade agreement could significantly expand trade and investment links. Hope was expressed that a positive decision on launching formal negotiations would be made in the near future.

The meeting, held on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit, also underscored the importance of closer institutional engagement between Georgia and the Gulf bloc as part of Tbilisi’s broader economic diplomacy efforts. Kobakhidze congratulated Al-Budaiwi on his appointment as Secretary General and wished him success in the role.