On February 24, the Government of Georgia convened at the Government Administration, where Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze addressed the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, severe snowfalls in Georgia, and the country’s economic performance.

Kobakhidze expressed solidarity with Ukraine on the tragic anniversary of the war, highlighting the devastating consequences, including significant loss of life, the displacement of approximately 10 million people, and the occupation of 20% of Ukraine’s territory by Russia. He emphasized the need for a swift and successful conclusion to ongoing peace efforts, reiterating Georgia’s support for its "friend country" and "friend people."

Turning to domestic issues, Kobakhidze addressed the heavy snowfall affecting multiple regions of Georgia. He instructed all relevant institutions to be fully mobilized to manage the crisis and ensure the population’s safety. The Prime Minister reassured the public that necessary measures were being implemented to mitigate the effects of the extreme weather.

Regarding the economy, Kobakhidze reported record-breaking employment statistics, with the total number of employed citizens reaching 1,412,500—the highest in Georgia’s modern history. Employment increased by 20,100 year-on-year, while self-employment rose by 19,700, bringing the total to 433,500. The unemployment rate also dropped, with 14,700 fewer people unemployed compared to the previous year. Kobakhidze expressed confidence that the government’s goal of creating 200,000 new jobs within the next four years was achievable.

He also highlighted strong foreign trade performance, citing a 39.3% increase in trade according to the January 2025 report from the National Statistics Office. While specific economic growth figures for January had not yet been published, preliminary estimates suggested near double-digit growth. He pointed out that Georgia’s economy grew by 9.5% in 2024, setting a positive outlook for 2025.

Kobakhidze also addressed the political climate in Georgia, criticizing certain domestic and foreign actors for attempting to fabricate an artificial economic crisis. He emphasized that these efforts had failed, as reflected in the country’s strong economic indicators. Notably, he pointed out that, for the first time in 20 years, the collective UNM (United National Movement) was not represented in Parliament—an outcome he viewed as a step forward for Georgia’s democratic development.

Concluding his speech, the Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to advancing Georgia’s economic and democratic progress without interference from radical opposition forces, ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the nation.