Georgian PM Highlights Economic Growth and China Relations at Davos Forum

| News, Politics, Georgia

On January 18, at the World Economic Forum 2024 in Davos, Switzerland, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili presented at a panel titled “New Dawn of Eurasia?” He extensively praised his administration and the Georgian Dream party for fostering economic growth in Georgia. His speech also highlighted the development of vital infrastructure for the Middle Corridor project and the enhancement of Georgia's ties with China, along with discussing regional dynamics.

Regarding Sino-Georgian relations, Garibashvili mentioned the strategic partnership formed with China in 2023. Despite internal criticism and cautious reactions from Georgia's longstanding strategic allies, Garibashvili defended this move, asserting the common European interest in strengthening economic and trade relations with China. During his panel discussion, he underscored China's keen interest in the Middle Corridor project, recalling his productive meeting with President Xi Jinping and their decision to elevate the bilateral relationship to a strategic level.

Speaking to journalists, Garibashvili reflected on a dinner event titled "Building Tomorrow's Europe," where economists and experts predicted a 3% global economic growth in 2024. He emphasized the significance of China's booming economy and positive global impact, highlighting the strategic partnership's role in advancing Georgia's economic development.

Focusing on the Middle Corridor, Garibashvili discussed the region's need for connectivity, reiterating Georgia's commitment to this initiative. He mentioned a roadmap signed two years prior with Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan to develop the corridor, outlining plans for expanding port infrastructure, improving productivity, modernizing railways, and developing airports and roads.

Discussing Georgia's infrastructure ambitions, Garibashvili announced plans to build a new deep-sea port in Anaklia on the Black Sea coast, double railway capacity to 48 million tons, and construct new airports to establish Georgia as an aviation hub. He also mentioned the completion of the East-West Highway and other major projects within two years.

Addressing regional security, Garibashvili spoke about the ongoing Russian occupation of 20% of Georgian territory since 2008. He highlighted his government's success in maintaining peace and stability, leading to unprecedented prosperity and growth in Georgia. He also touched on his mediation efforts in the Azerbaijan-Armenia conflict last year, advocating for a bilateral resolution between the two nations.

Garibashvili expressed gratitude for the EU's decision to grant Georgia EU Candidate Status, crediting his government's efforts for this significant achievement.

Regarding newfound alliances, Garibashvili seemed to forge a strong rapport with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić during the forum. Vučić praised Garibashvili's economic policies and critiqued Georgia's previous government for its lower economic growth rates. He defended Garibashvili's engagement with China, drawing parallels with his own leadership experience. Notably, Vučić, known for maintaining close relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, joined Hungarian leader Viktor Orban in supporting the Georgian Dream government amidst its waning popularity in Europe.

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