Government and National Bank of Georgia need more coordinated, healthy cooperation. It was announced by the Prime Minister when delivering a speech at the event summarizing the performance of NBG Governor today.

“Today, the budget deficit is 2.8%, while economic growth was 10% last year. We significantly reduced the public debt – almost to 38%. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is at its historic maximum, as it will reach 25 BLN USD, i.e. equivalent to almost 80 BLN GEL. GDP Per Capita will be 8000 USD and the exchange rate of GEL will range between 2.6 and 2.65 against a USD.

In addition, the unemployment indicator is at its historic minimum. The same applies to the poverty level. What is most important, economic growth during these two years has enabled Governor Gvenetadze and NBG Management to replenish the international reserves of the country to its maximum.

It is a brief summary of the most constructive and coordinated work of the Government and National Bank of Georgia. Gvenetadze elaborated on the significance of the NBG and recalled its history. I also wish to confirm that we – of course – respect its independence, which is ensured by the Constitution of Georgia. Nevertheless, I need to note that the Government and National Bank of Georgia need more coordinated, healthy cooperation. What I have told you is a result of such interaction. I wish to sincerely thank Governor Gvenetadze. We have had a number of meetings. Different viewpoints existed at some occasions. There were healthy arguments, criticism as well, but we would always agree eventually on the main goal – national interests of the country. What was needed and is needed for the country at any given time and place was our guiding principle, spirit and responsibility we jointly had for the past 2 years. You are a witness of the truly impressive results.

One of the key aims and goals of the NBG is to promote financial stability as a precondition of a sustainable economy. Lastly, I wish to say that with targeted, effective and constructive decisions of Gvenetadze, performance of the NBG was most positive. Once again, I express gratitude to Gvenetadze for his service. You truly served at a demanding position for the past 7 years, have seen a number of Prime Ministers and I am the one bidding farewell now. I wish you every success and thank you!”, - said Irakli Garibashvili.