The State Representative of Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, David Verava, met with the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Georgia, Zhou Qian. During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for bilateral cooperation, including the possibility of establishing twinning relations between the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region and a Chinese province.

“Within the framework of the strategic partnership between Georgia and China, bilateral cooperation has significantly intensified in various directions. In this context, we intend to work closely on deepening relations at the regional level. We have already taken initial steps as part of this initiative. Cooperation between our region and Chinese provinces can be developed in various fields, including: promotion of economy and investments, strengthening of tourism, technology, and educational programs. Sharing experience in terms of infrastructure development is also important”, - said David Verava.

He also touched upon the significance of the Anaklia Port and reviewed the region’s potential in various directions. Among them, particular focus was placed on tourism; according to Verava, the decision made during the recent visit of the Minister of Economy, Mariam Kvrivishvili, to China regarding the commencement of direct flights on the Shanghai-Tbilisi route will facilitate an increase in Chinese tourists to the region - which is vital for the economic development of Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, strengthening of the tourism sector.

The meeting was attended by the State Representative and the Ambassador, along with the Mayor of Zugdidi, David Kodua, the First Deputy State Representative, Nino Vibliani, the First Secretary of the Ambassador (responsible for education and culture), Chen Zhiyu, and Attaché He Fengyu.

Following the meeting, government officials gave the Chinese Ambassador a tour of some of Zugdidi’s landmarks.

The Ambassador’s visit to the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region continues. Zhou Qian will next meet with the Mayor of Mestia, Kapiton Zhorzholiani.