New Georgian PM calls for “ambitious” anti-corruption goals amid “positive progress”

Irakli Kobakhidze, the new Prime Minister of Georgia, on Monday hailed the country’s progress in combating corruption, citing positive assessments from various international studies. However, he emphasized the need for even greater ambition, aiming for Georgia to become one of the world’s foremost nations in anti-corruption efforts – an attainable goal, in his view.

Kobakhidze highlighted the strength of the government team and expressed confidence in their ability to deliver “significant results”. He stressed the importance of sustained effort and determination, acknowledging the hard work already put forth by all involved.

“In our fight against corruption, we have achieved commendable results, as evidenced by international assessments. Yet, we must strive for excellence and aspire to join the ranks of the world’s leading countries in this regard,” he said. 

The authority of the First Vice Prime Minister will be assigned to the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Levan Davitashvili, while Culture Minister Thea Tsulukiani and Defence Minister Irakli Chikovani would serve as deputy PMs, Kobakhidze said, also saying Mikheil Peikrishvili will become the head of the strategic communications department of the government.

Pledging his office’s “transparency and accountability” to citizens, Kobakhidze vowed “effective response” and aid to the families affected by last week landslides and adverse weather in western Georgia, claiming 14 lives, and consultations with rallying employees of Tbilisi Republican Hospital.