Georgian, Hungarian PMs discuss strategic cooperation

Strategic cooperation between Georgia and Hungary was discussed on Tuesday in a meeting between the Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

The high-level session of the Intergovernmental Commission brought together cabinet members from both countries and focused on expanding sectoral cooperation across a wide range of fields.

Key areas identified for enhanced partnership include energy and connectivity, environmental protection, agriculture, defence and law enforcement, justice and healthcare and education and culture.

In his remarks, Kobakhidze expressed gratitude for Hungary’s consistent support of Georgia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and European integration aspirations.

“Your leadership is exemplary for us, the way you lead your country, care for Hungary’s and the Hungarian people’s national interests, and protect Hungary’s identity. From our perspective, we are united by shared values, and we believe this value-based unity strengthens the partnership and friendship between our countries and Governments. I would like to take this opportunity to express special gratitude for Hungary’s strong support for Georgia. First and foremost, thank you for supporting our country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. I also want to extend special thanks for your support on Georgia’s path to European integration. When Georgia achieved candidate status, your contribution was particularly significant, and today, as we continue our journey towards the European Union, your support is of immense importance to our country and the Georgian people. The development of bilateral cooperation between Hungary and Georgia is very important to us”, Kobakhidze told Orbán.

The PM highlighted the importance of expanding trade and economic ties, describing them as having strong momentum but untapped potential, especially in sectoral areas.

“It is in our interest to do our utmost to fully utilise this potential. We believe that the development of trade and economic relations between our countries has great potential. Deepening sectoral cooperation is very important to us. We are interested in cooperation in all areas, such as energy, connectivity, environmental protection, agriculture, education, culture, law enforcement, justice, and healthcare. We are highly interested in further deepening cooperation in all these directions. For this, it is very important that the sectoral formats of our bilateral commission develop further. We are pleased that the legal framework related to the partnership between our countries is progressing, and we are ready for maximum cooperation in this regard. Your support is of great importance to our country,” he noted.

Orbán emphasised shared values of sovereignty, patriotism, and Christian identity, stating that Hungary only holds such comprehensive intergovernmental sessions with a few selected partners.

“In this format, we discuss cooperation between various ministries, and this is a sign that not individual ministries, but the entire Government is cooperating with your Government. This is a rare occurrence in our practice, and I want to say that cooperating with Georgia, with you, Mr. Prime Minister is a great honour for us - primarily because Hungarians respect history, and you have an extraordinary history. Your Christian history is far greater than ours. It is a great honour to cooperate with you, especially since both our countries love freedom. Phrases like ‘I love my homeland’ or ‘I am proud of my country’ are considered shameful in the West and are no longer used, but we still love saying these words and are delighted to host guests who share the same feelings and sentiments towards these phrases. Your visit is a great privilege for us due to the results you have achieved in your country”, Orbán said.

The PM praised Georgia’s seven percent economic growth as a “galactic phenomenon”, especially in contrast to broader stagnation across Europe.

“European economies are suffering greatly now. If someone achieves over 1 percent economic growth, it is a great success. Therefore, your 7 percent growth is a galactic phenomenon. I know this is truly the result of your immense efforts. It is always a great honour to welcome and host you in Hungary”, he concluded.