Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze visited Azerbaijan on January 17, accompanied by a delegation that included key ministers and officials. The visit focused on strengthening bilateral relations, promoting regional cooperation, and advancing critical energy and trade projects.

During a meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Prime Minister Kobakhidze highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership between the two nations in ensuring regional stability and security. Both leaders acknowledged the significant economic collaboration between Georgia and Azerbaijan, with President Aliyev noting that Azerbaijan has invested $3.6 billion in Georgia. Discussions also centered on key connectivity projects like the Middle Corridor, which links Europe and Asia, and shared energy initiatives, including the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, the Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum gas pipeline, and the Southern Gas Corridor.

Prime Minister Kobakhidze also met with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ali Asadov, to discuss the main directions of the Georgia-Azerbaijan strategic partnership. The leaders emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the region and reaffirmed Georgia’s readiness to promote trilateral dialogue and cooperation among South Caucasus countries. Discussions also underlined the need to strengthen regional transport and energy infrastructure, particularly the Black Sea submarine cable project, which is pivotal for Europe’s energy security. Prime Minister Asadov highlighted the significance of the Southern Corridor, stating, “Our countries play an important role in the implementation of this strategic project. Today, together, we are building a green energy bridge in Europe.”

The visit also included the 10th session of the Georgia-Azerbaijan Intergovernmental Commission for Economic Cooperation, where both sides expressed their commitment to expanding collaboration in trade, energy, and environmental protection. Several agreements were signed, including protocols on maritime transport, environmental cooperation, and consular matters. For example, a Protocol of Intent was signed between the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia and the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan. Additionally, Memoranda of Understanding were signed on cooperation in maritime transport between Georgia's Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development and Azerbaijan's Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, as well as on consular issues between the foreign ministries of both countries.

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili also held talks with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov. These discussions highlighted the exemplary partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to peace and stability in the region. Particular attention was given to the trilateral relationship between Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, with a focus on the Middle Corridor and its significance for global trade and energy markets.