Minister Kvrivishvili: Georgia, Turkey strengthen economic ties with focus on transport, trade and tourism

Georgian Economy and Sustainable Development Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili highlighted a “very productive” meeting with Turkey’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, alongside the results-focused session of the 6th Georgia-Turkey Intergovernmental Joint Economic Commission held in Tbilisi.

“We discussed further deepening our trade and economic relations. A special focus was placed on the transport sector and key infrastructure projects currently being implemented by the Georgian government. These initiatives are critical for developing the Middle Corridor and enhancing Georgia’s role as a regional transit hub,” Kvrivishvili stated after the session.

She emphasized progress in several strategic projects, including the construction of the Anaklia Deep Sea Port and expansion of Georgia’s highway network. Discussions also covered the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway project, which she called essential not only for Georgia but also for Azerbaijan and Turkey.

The Intergovernmental Commission meeting, co-chaired by Kvrivishvili and Uraloğlu, explored key areas of trade and economic cooperation and reviewed the progress of joint infrastructure projects that contribute to the development of the Middle Corridor – a critical East-West transport route linking Central Asia with Europe.

Tourism and aviation cooperation were also in focus. Kvrivishvili noted recent talks with Turkish Airlines leadership, exploring the launch of a new direct Ankara-Tbilisi route.

“We are already working with Turkish Airlines to potentially open direct flights between Ankara and Tbilisi. Increased flight frequencies and new routes will strengthen people-to-people ties and boost both tourism flows and Turkish investment in Georgia,” she said.

Minister Uraloğlu also praised the outcomes of the meeting. “We addressed a broad range of issues, with particular emphasis on transportation—land, rail, and maritime. We discussed the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and the important progress toward its full activation. It was a very fruitful meeting, and I hope our cooperation will continue to grow,” he stated.