Georgia`s unique strategic location has traditionally made it a bridge between Europe and Asia, giving the country an important transit function. One of our key priorities is to fully restore this historic role, and the construction of highways plays a special and significant part in achieving this goal. It was stated by the Prime Minister of Georgia while speaking at the inauguration of a new 8-kilometer section of the Samtredia-Grigoleti highway.

The Head of Government of Georgia, together with Minister of Infrastructure Revaz Sokhadze, opened the four-lane road built to the highest modern standards, which includes three new bridges and two transport interchanges.

Irakli Kobakhidze emphasized the project`s importance in easing traffic in the city of Lanchkhuti and surrounding villages, noting that it will mean less noise and greater safety for local residents, as well as reduced travel time and increased comfort for passengers.

"This year, we have already inaugurated a key section of the Rikoti Pass project-the Rikoti bypass road. Today’s 8-kilometer section is part of the 12-kilometer Samtredia-Grigoleti stretch. Construction works will continue actively and the entire section will be completed in the near future. To date, 383 kilometers of highways have been built in the country.

Before 2012, only 68 kilometers of highways had been constructed in Georgia. Since 2012, 315 kilometers of highways have been built. It should also be noted that these are significantly more complex sections, the construction of which is being undertaken by our government and in particular by the Ministry of Infrastructure.

These figures best demonstrate the difference and our commitment to the task. In the near future, construction of the entire East-West Highway (EWH) corridor will be completed, covering the full stretch from Red Bridge to Sarpi. We have a clearly defined plan that envisions completing all sections of highways across the country in the coming years", - said the Prime Minister.

The Head of Government of Georgia also highlighted the role of partners in implementing such projects and expressed gratitude to the European Investment Bank. He further extended special thanks to Minister of Infrastructure Revaz Sokhadze, the Ministry, the Roads Department and every builder and engineer involved in the project for its successful implementation.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by members of the Government and Parliament of Georgia, the State Representative in the Guria region and representatives of local authorities.