Developing strategic partnership and cooperation in the directions of trade ad economy were the key topics discussed at the meeting between Georgian Prime Minister and Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

As Irakli Garibashvili pointed out, China is Georgia’s reliable trade partner, third largest trade partner, also first in terms of export and third in terms of import among Georgia’s largest trade partners. The parties discussed the results achieved since the signing of the Free Trade Agreement with China, which amounted to 2 billion USD in 2022. He noted that Georgia attaches great importance to further continuing investment cooperation with China. Irakli Garibashvili briefed Li Qiang on the country’s potential in the areas of transport, logistics, energy, and renewable energy sources, also on large infrastructural projects actively carried out by the Government.

Georgia’s transit potential and the importance of developing the Middle Corridor-which has acquired further significance against the backdrop of global challenges-were also discussed at the meeting. Via the Trans-Caspian the South Caucasus international transport route, Georgia offers a path connecting China to Europe in the shortest time possible.

The parties also discussed regional energy and infrastructural initiatives poised to enhance the South Caucasus Region’s opportunities to become a connector between the East and the West. The conversation revolved around the positive indicators in the sphere of tourism. As the Prime Minister noted, the cooperation between the countries in the area of tourism is growing and, as a result of joint efforts, the pre-pandemic statistics will be restored soon. In this regard, it is commendable that flights between Georgia and China have resumed, in this way contributing to the growth of the numbers of tourists.

The conversation touched on cooperation toward the development of digital economy, including in the directions of the development of 5G technologies and the creation of data centers, the digital corridor, and the establishment of a regional digital hub in Georgia.

“Mister Premier, it is a great honor and pleasure to meet you today. First of all, I would like to say how much we value this relationship and friendship with China. I came here with one concrete message, to strengthen our bilateral ties, our relationship, and our friendship.

Mister Premier, I had the opportunity and privilege to meet with President Xi Jinping in Chengdu. And I am extremely grateful for his warm welcome and hospitality. And I was also privileged to attend the opening ceremony of the World University Games, which was fantastic and spectacular. I want to once again thank you and express my gratitude to President Xi Jinping and you, Premier.

I want to note that, of course, we are extremely honored and pleased with the decision that we will elevate our relationship to the strategic partnership level. This, I think, will bring complete results for both ends, for Georgia and for China as well. And also I want to highlight-which I mentioned to President Xi-that Georgia firmly supports the One China Principle, and I also want to express my gratitude for your support to Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

We truly value this friendship and cooperation with China, so I very much look forward to working with you, and I am looking forward to our discussion. Thank you again”, - said Irakli Garibashvili.