Kobakhidze Says Georgia is One of Europe's Fastest-Growing Economies
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, January 15, 2026
Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said Georgia has become one of Europe's fastest-growing economies during his speech at the Leaders' Dialogue at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, which focused on the Middle Corridor and the role of energy in connecting Europe and Asia.
"We are a very successful country in terms of economic development, not only in our country, but also in the wider region," Kobakhidze said. "Our average economic growth over the past five years has been 9.3%, which is one of the highest in Europe."
Kobakhidze said the growth reflects the government's economic reforms and efforts to reduce corruption. "This success is the result of the reforms being implemented in the country, the fact that the level of corruption is the lowest in the region, and that we have better indicators in this area than 11 EU member states," he said.
Kobakhidze emphasized that the government's policies have focused not only on macroeconomic growth but also on improving governance and creating a more transparent business environment. "If Georgia's indicators and achievements are assessed fairly, step by step, what we are doing should generate enthusiasm for Georgia's integration into the European space," he said.
He acknowledged that political and diplomatic challenges remain with the European Union but expressed optimism that these obstacles could be overcome. "We naturally belong to Europe, and we are working to develop the country in terms of economic growth and governance. There are certain difficulties between the EU and Georgia, but we hope political circumstances will change and integration will take place."
Kobakhidze also discussed Georgia's regional role, linking economic growth to infrastructure projects and the country's strategic position. While speaking at the forum, he framed Georgia's development as part of the broader effort to strengthen connections between Europe and Asia, particularly through initiatives such as the Middle Corridor.
Kobakhidze said that sustained economic performance has not only strengthened Georgia's domestic economy but also increased foreign investment and regional influence. "We are making progress in creating a stable and predictable environment for business, which encourages investment and supports sustainable development across multiple sectors," he said.
