During his visit to the United States, First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Levan Davitashvili, alongside Minister of Finance Lasha Khutsishvili and National Bank President Natia Turnava, engaged in a crucial meeting with Anna Bjerde, the World Bank’s Managing Director of Operations.

This meeting took place as part of Davitashvili’s official visit to the U.S. and included the participation of Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development Vakhtang Tsintsadze, First Deputy Minister of Finance Giorgi Kakauridze, and Deputy Minister of Finance Ekaterine Guntsadze.

As Davitashvili highlighted during the discussions, the World Bank is a vital partner in Georgia’s development. He emphasized that the current phase of their collaboration focuses on implementing projects critical for the nation’s future growth.

“We engaged in thorough discussions regarding strategic initiatives, such as the Black Sea submarine cable (BSSC), which will connect Georgia to the EU electricity grid, as well as comprehensive internet programs across Georgia that aim to enhance the country’s long-term competitiveness. We have received a commitment for long-term cooperation from the World Bank, which is essential for sustaining our economic growth and advancing overall progress. This partnership encompasses not only financing but also technical support, which will bolster Georgia’s capabilities,” stated Levan Davitashvili.

The meeting addressed priority areas for collaboration between Georgia and the World Bank, spotlighting ongoing and prospective projects, along with their benefits and opportunities. The substantial impact of World Bank initiatives on Georgia’s macroeconomic stability, civil infrastructure development, and structural reforms was underscored.

The Georgian delegation provided the World Bank Vice President with comprehensive insights into current economic trends in Georgia. Despite external challenges, it was noted that the Georgian economy has been experiencing a remarkable double-digit growth rate since the post-pandemic period, a trend that continues to this day, thanks to the government’s strategic and consistent policies.

The meeting also discussed the development of a framework for cooperation with the World Bank in the coming years, which should be fully consistent with Georgia’s economic priorities.