Georgian PM highlights economic growth, role of diplomacy

Georgia’s Prime Minister, Irakli Kobakhidze, has said that political stability and a predictable policy environment have played a key role in strengthening the country’s economic position.

Speaking at the annual Ambassadors’ Conference, Kobakhidze said Georgia’s economy had grown by an average of 9.8% over the past four years - a figure he described as the highest in Europe.

He said maintaining a high pace of economic growth remained a priority and noted that strong growth had also been sustained this year. The prime minister credited economic diplomacy for playing a particularly important role, praising the work of Georgia’s diplomatic corps and thanking them for their efforts.

Kobakhidze also highlighted what he described as the crucial role of Georgia’s diplomatic missions in consolidating international support for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He said that with 20% of Georgia’s territory under occupation, the policy of non-recognition remained an unchanged priority. According to the prime minister, progress in this area was largely the result of the work carried out by diplomats.

Addressing ambassadors and senior officials, Kobakhidze said the past year had been challenging but that the government had managed to overcome difficulties. He pointed to fundamental changes in the global international system and said that, for a country located in a complex region, rational and pragmatic foreign relations were of vital importance.

He added that Georgia’s diplomats played a decisive role in navigating these changes and advancing the country’s national interests.