Within the ongoing UN International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly in London, Georgia’s Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Mariam Kvrivishvili, met with China’s Deputy Minister of Transport, Li Yang. Deputy Minister Tamar Ioseliani also attended the meeting, the Ministry of Economy reported.

The sides discussed a broad spectrum of cooperation in the transport sector, including maritime links. Both Kvrivishvili and Li Yang underlined that the partnership between Georgia and China is grounded in mutual respect and a shared objective of strengthening connectivity between Europe and Asia. Special attention was given to the development of the Middle Corridor and Georgia’s crucial role in this process.

“China is our strategic partner in many areas, and cooperation in transport connectivity is especially noteworthy. We have made significant progress, including in civil aviation—following the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Georgia to China, a decision was made to launch direct flights between our capitals. Discussions are also underway regarding direct flights between Tbilisi and Shanghai. This will greatly contribute to strengthening trade, economic relations, tourism, and people-to-people exchange,” Kvrivishvili stated.

She highlighted Georgia’s interest in deepening cooperation with China in the maritime sector, including the sharing of experience in fields aligned with Georgia’s priorities—such as green transition, maritime digitalization, education, research, and development.

The Minister also spoke about the progress of large-scale infrastructure projects in Georgia, including the Anaklia Deepwater Port, the new Vaziani International Airport, and the Railway Modernization Project. These projects, she noted, play a strategic role in advancing both the Middle Corridor and broader regional connectivity.

Kvrivishvili emphasized that during the Georgian delegation’s recent visit to China, the two countries signed an agreement aimed at further deepening strategic cooperation. Today, China is one of Georgia’s largest trading partners, with Chinese investments increasing by 229% in the first half of 2025. Cargo turnover through the Middle Corridor is also growing rapidly.

During the meeting, Kvrivishvili highlighted Georgia’s potential in integrated maritime–rail transport and expanding transportation services.

“We have great potential to deepen cooperation between Georgia and China in trade, economic, and transport sectors. Most importantly, both countries are ready for this, and the Middle Corridor provides the platform to fully realize that potential,” the Minister said.