Georgian FM says agreements signed in Baku enhance country’s transit role

Georgian foreign minister Maka Botchorishvili on Monday said that the Georgian delegation’s participation in the World Urban Forum in Baku highlighted the country's urban development vision and its growing regional importance.

In her remarks, Botchorishvili emphasised the agreements signed in Baku between the Georgian and Azerbaijani governments, noting they would deepen strategic cooperation, significantly boost Georgia's transit capabilities, and reinforce its role as a key player in the Middle Corridor.

“The World Urban Forum in Baku was held at a remarkably high level, drawing prominent global guests”, the foreign minister said. “It was crucial for Georgia to be represented at the prime ministerial level, allowing us to showcase our urban development vision and our achievements in this field. It provided an excellent platform”.

“The ongoing cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia, coupled with these new agreements, will bring fresh significance to both nations - particularly Georgia”, she continued. “It is vital for our country to fully leverage its transit potential. While we often focus on energy transit, we must also maximise our capacity for transport and cargo. The major agreements signed today in Baku address both areas and will elevate Georgia's regional importance to an entirely new level”.

She also highlighted Azerbaijan’s decision to restore passenger rail service between the two nations, noting it would boost economic ties and facilitate travel.

“In addition to the critical transit agreements already mentioned, Azerbaijan’s decision to resume passenger train traffic is a major milestone”, she concluded. “This is highly beneficial for the citizens of both countries and will significantly strengthen people-to-people relations alongside our business ties”.