Georgian PM opens new consulate in Milan, hails deepening ties with Italy

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Tuesday hailed the “special friendship” between Georgia and Italy, celebrating the opening of Georgia’s new General Consulate in Milan as a concrete step to further strengthen the two countries’ ties.

Speaking at a festive event marking both the Consulate’s official opening and Georgia’s Independence Day, Kobakhidze emphasized the warmth and shared affinities between the Georgian and Italian peoples.

“We are proud of the friendship that has developed between Georgia and Italy,” he said. “One expression of our close relations is the opening of the new General Consulate in Milan, which will further deepen the ties between our countries.”

Kobakhidze also highlighted the cultural and emotional resonance of Milan for Georgians, recalling that Tbilisi’s current mayor, Kakha Kaladze, represented Georgia for years as a celebrated football player with AC Milan.

“Milan has a special meaning for Georgians because it is where Kakha Kaladze, the Mayor of Tbilisi, proudly defended our country’s honor and brought many victories to Georgia,” he noted.

The Prime Minister praised the strong presence of the Georgian diaspora in Italy, particularly in the north, which he said adds momentum to the countries’ burgeoning partnership.

“Georgians have a special respect for Italy and the Italian people,” Kobakhidze added. “We believe we share much in common with Italians, and this is a source of pride for us.”

He concluded by expressing gratitude to Italy and its people for their long-standing friendship. “Thank you again to each and every one of you for being here and for the many years of friendship we have always felt from you,” he said.