Georgian Economy Minister says Gov’t will not allow any attempt to undermine strategic energy projects

Mariam Kvrivishvili, the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, on Tuesday said that the Government’s key responsibility was to ensure the proper development of the energy sector, noting that this priority area generates critical value for Georgia’s energy independence and security.

“We are in daily communication with business representatives and current or potential investors on how joint efforts can increase investment in energy, expand domestic generation, and, above all, guarantee energy independence and security. This is the core value our energy sector must create. We have many new initiatives that will be presented publicly in the coming period”, the minister said.

Kvrivishvili further stressed Georgia’s role in the Green Energy Corridor and its potential to become an energy hub.

She recalled that at the recent ministerial meeting hosted in Tbilisi, representatives of Georgia, Azerbaijan, Hungary, and Romania discussed ways to jointly enhance regional connectivity with the European market, including the export of electricity generated in Georgia - an opportunity that further increases the country’s investment appeal and strengthens its contribution to the EU’s energy security.

“Georgia was the first country in the region to voice the initiative for the Black Sea Submarine Cable project. This project will enable the direct export of domestically generated electricity to the European market. It created the momentum that inspired both regional and EU countries, laying the foundation for a new Green Energy Corridor in which Georgia plays a key role. This project will serve as the basis for Georgia to further deepen its function as an electricity transit hub”, Kvrivishvili noted.

The Minister added that interest in Georgia’s energy sector from “both foreign and local investors continues to grow”.

She stressed the need for the state to deliver the right projects, recalling past instances when opponents of energy independence artificially obstructed critical initiatives.

“Our Government will not allow even an attempt by any ill-wisher of our country to dare obstruct - or even inflict reputational damage on - energy projects of such strategic importance”, Kvrivishvili concluded.