Georgia’s PM says Georgian seafarers are vital national asset; high maritime standards remain top priority

“Our goal is to render the Middle Corridor faster, more reliable, and more predictable, which requires coordinated action and the further enhancement of Black Sea connectivity,” Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze declared at the Georgia International Maritime Forum (GIMF 2026) in Batumi.

As the head of government noted, Georgia has successfully fulfilled all obligations assumed under the EU Association Agreement regarding the maritime transport sector and continues to implement international maritime standards.

“The success of the Middle Corridor and the full realisation of its potential depend on how effectively we interconnect our infrastructure and transport networks. A prime example of such collaboration is the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway, completed through the joint efforts of Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Türkiye, which became fully operational in June.

Our objective is to ensure the Middle Corridor becomes faster, more reliable, and predictable. Achieving this necessitates coordinated action and the further strengthening of Black Sea connectivity.

Human capital stands at the heart of this endeavour. Georgian seafarers and maritime professionals constitute a vital asset for Georgia, and providing them with modern education and rigorous professional standards remains our priority. We stand ready to continue contributing actively to the reinforcement of international maritime standards across the Black Sea region through close cooperation with the International Maritime Organisation.

Safe navigation in the Black Sea, peace and stability in the region, and adherence to international law are of paramount importance. Georgia remains firmly committed to international law and a rules-based maritime order. Georgia has successfully met all obligations under the EU Association Agreement within the maritime sector and continues to align with international standards. I am confident that the Georgia International Maritime Forum will bolster partnerships, foster regional connectivity, and unlock new opportunities for Georgia, the Black Sea region, and the Middle Corridor as a whole,” Irakli Kobakhidze stated.