Azerbaijan invests $3.6 billion in Georgia following Aliyev, Kobakhidze meeting
Ilham Aliyev (R), Azerbaijan President, and Irakli Kobakhidze (L), Prime Minister of the Republic of Georgia, who arrived to attend the 10th meeting of Azerbaijan-Georgia Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, hold a joint press conference following their meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan on January 17, 2025. (AA Photo)
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze reaffirmed their countries’ strategic partnership during a meeting Friday in Baku, where the Georgian leader attended the 10th Meeting of the Azerbaijan-Georgia Intergovernmental Economic Cooperation Commission.
At a news conference following their discussions, Aliyev highlighted the robust relationship between the two nations, citing their cooperation as exemplary for the region.
He underscored Azerbaijan’s $3.6 billion investment in Georgia’s economy as evidence of the deepening economic ties.
Energy projects as a cornerstone of Azerbaijani-Georgian collaboration
Energy cooperation took center stage in the talks, with Aliyev emphasizing the critical role of joint oil and natural gas projects. “The oil and natural gas projects we have implemented together form the backbone of energy security for many countries,” he said.
Aliyev noted Azerbaijan exports natural gas to 11 countries via Georgia, with exports steadily increasing. “Last year, we exported 25 billion cubic meters of natural gas, with 10% going to Georgia. Over 80% of Georgia’s natural gas consumption is supplied by Azerbaijan. As new gas fields become operational this year, our natural gas exports will continue to grow,” he said.
The Azerbaijani president also highlighted the importance of the Middle Corridor initiative, which connects Europe and Asia. “This project spans a vast geography, and Georgia and Azerbaijan play a crucial role as a bridge between Europe and Asia,” he said.
Aliyev congratulates the Georgian Dream Party’s victory
In a gesture of goodwill, Aliyev congratulated the ruling Georgian Dream Party on its recent electoral success, calling it vital for stability in the South Caucasus. “As your friends and brothers, we take great pride in this achievement,” he said.
Kobakhidze echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for Azerbaijan’s support and emphasizing the deep historical ties between the two nations. He reiterated Georgia’s commitment to Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
“Peace, stability, and security in the South Caucasus are of utmost importance,” Kobakhidze said. “We are ready to make every effort to ensure this stability. It is critical that we continue to collaborate on existing projects and identify new opportunities.”
The Georgian prime minister praised the strategic partnership, calling Azerbaijan “a reliable partner and a brotherly nation.”
He added that joint projects benefit both nations and emphasized the importance of further strengthening these ties.
The meeting underscored the shared commitment of Azerbaijan and Georgia to regional stability, energy cooperation, and economic growth, reinforcing their roles as pivotal partners in the South Caucasus and beyond.
