PM Kobakhidze says Georgia maintains strong economic growth; government prioritises extending benefits to rural and mountainous regions

“Georgia continues to maintain strong economic momentum, with economic growth averaging 7.6 per cent over the first eight months of 2026,” Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated during his address at the COP17 Leaders’ Summit.

According to the Prime Minister, the government’s priority is to ensure that the benefits of economic growth reach populations in rural and mountainous regions.

“Georgia continues to maintain a high rate of economic development. During the first eight months of 2026, average economic growth reached 7.6 per cent. The World Bank recently upgraded its 2026 economic growth forecast for Georgia to 7 per cent. According to the WB projection, Georgia will achieve the highest economic growth rate among European countries between 2026 and 2028.

Our priority is to ensure that the fruits of economic growth benefit the population in rural and mountainous areas whose livelihoods depend on natural resources. This is precisely why we are turning protected areas, forest restoration, and sustainable tourism into drivers of local development, ensuring that nature conservation generates jobs and new opportunities not only in major cities, but beyond them as well.

Achieving long-term results also demands cross-border cooperation. Shared ecosystems in the South Caucasus provide an essential foundation for deepening regional partnerships and sustainable development. Georgia stands ready to collaborate closely with neighbouring countries to protect our common natural heritage,” the Prime Minister declared.