“Our attitude is state oversight based on justice and social responsibility, and directing investments towards actual recovery of the system. We create a solid foundation for the infrastructure of modern standards to leave for future generations,” said Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, addressing the International Water Futures Forum.

According to the PM, Georgia, as a key hub in the Black and Caspian Seas region, has the potential to become a leader in strategic water resources management.

“I am pleased that Georgia is hosting the first International Water Futures Forum. Water is our country’s national wealth and asset. In the 21st century, when water resource exhaustion has become a global challenge, the importance of water is much greater. It represents the foundation of life, health and decent living of our citizens.

Georgia, as a key hub in the Black and Caspian Seas region, has the potential to become a leader in strategic water resources management. We aim to set an example of how the state can manage its national resources with sovereignty and rationality.

To reach that goal, we need to address challenges and renew the current infrastructure fundamentally for each family to have 24-hour access to safe potable water. This requires replacement of thousand-kilometers-long outdated pipes, construction of new cleaning facilities and introducing modern technologies. Such large-scale work also requires much effort and responsibility.

That is why we choose a pragmatic development path. Our partnership with the global leader, Aqualia company, serves these interests. This cooperation makes the best international experience in the field available to our country. This cooperation means that the Georgian water sector is developing with European standards, which finally impacts the welfare of our citizens.

Our attitude is state oversight based on justice and social responsibility, and directing investments towards real recovery of the system. We create a solid foundation for the infrastructure of modern standards to leave for future generations,” the PM said.