Georgia and Slovakia explore expanded direct flights as Economy Minister meets Slovak Tourism Minister

Mariam Kvrivishvili, Georgia’s Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, has held bilateral talks with Rudolf Huliak, Minister of Tourism and Sports of the Slovak Republic.

According to the Ministry of Economy, the ministers discussed deepening bilateral partnership, expanding aviation connectivity, and advancing joint initiatives within the tourism sector.

Discussions focused heavily on strengthening economic ties and tourism collaboration. Figures for the first two quarters of 2026 reveal a 67% increase in visitor arrivals from Slovakia compared to the same period last year. Both sides acknowledged that direct air connections have played a pivotal role in boosting tourism and trade, with three weekly flights currently operating between Kutaisi and Bratislava.

In light of strong passenger demand between the two nations, the Georgian delegation expressed full readiness to support expanding direct flight routes to Slovakia from Georgia’s other international airports.

Both ministers praised the inaugural Georgia–Slovakia Tourism Forum held in 2026, noting its key role in bringing together public and private sectors from both countries.

The meeting also underscored the significance of Slovakia’s ongoing support for Georgia in both bilateral and multilateral formats.

The Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Genadi Arveladze and Head of the National Tourism Administration, Maia Omiadze, also attended the high-level talks.