Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze pledged to deepen strategic cooperation during high-level talks at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, marking a new phase in bilateral relations under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The leaders celebrated 33 years of diplomatic ties characterized by mutual respect, with Premier Li emphasizing China's commitment to 'advancing high-quality BRI cooperation' through enhanced trade, digital innovation, and infrastructure connectivity. The meeting followed the 2023 establishment of a China-Georgia strategic partnership that has already accelerated cross-sector collaboration.
'Our economic complementarity creates natural synergies,' Li stated, highlighting recent progress including the upgraded China-Georgia Free Trade Agreement. The premier outlined plans to expand cooperation in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and smart agriculture while maintaining traditional strengths in trade and investment.
Kobakhidze reaffirmed Georgia's adherence to the one-China principle and described China as a 'responsible global actor' contributing to international stability. Both leaders witnessed the signing of 15 cooperation documents spanning environmental technology, aviation logistics, and cultural exchanges, with Georgia committing to improved market access for Chinese enterprises.
The discussions underscored shared priorities in multilateral governance, with both nations agreeing to coordinate on implementing China's global development initiatives and reforming international financial systems. Tourism emerged as another focal point, with plans to simplify visa procedures and establish new sister-city partnerships.
As Georgia positions itself as a Eurasian logistics hub, the agreements signal growing economic integration between Asia and the Caucasus region through BRI channels. Analysts suggest the partnership could serve as a model for China's evolving engagement with middle-income economies.
