The development of the transit function is of particular importance for the growth of our country’s economy. Large-scale investments are being made in the development of high-speed highways, capacity of Kutaisi International Airport is being expanded and by 2031 Tbilisi will have a completely new international airport. We also have an ambitious plan to build the Anaklia Port. The Prime Minister of Georgia said this at the presentation of the Historic Renewal of Georgian Railway.

The Head of Government of Georgia emphasized the importance of connectivity and highlighted the role of Georgian Railway in the development of the country.

“Large-scale investments are being made in the development of highways and by 2030 virtually all key sections will be completed. The capacity of Kutaisi International Airport is expanding significantly. By 2031, Tbilisi will have a brand-new international airport capable of serving approximately 18 million passengers annually, which is important both for improving connectivity and for a better utilization of our tourism potential. We also have an ambitious plan to build Anaklia Port - one of the most important infrastructure projects - which will support the development of connectivity”, - said Irakli Kobakhidze.

He spoke about the reforms implemented in the railway sector over the past year, noting that the results are tangible - management efficiency has improved and, as a result of optimization, Georgian Railway is saving 24 million GEL annually.

“This is a sum that will be reinvested in railway development and, accordingly, will serve the growth of our economy. There was an incorrect practice involving intermediary companies. Business processes that had been outsourced to over 10 intermediary companies have been brought back into Georgian Railway. As a result, the savings and additional revenues amounted to a total of 18.5 million GEL. If we also consider staff optimization, additional income and savings, the total exceeds 40 million GEL. Through procurement optimization and reduced contract values, Georgian Railway achieved one-time savings of 190.4 million GEL. Naturally, these savings will also contribute to the development of our economy. The annual net profit of Georgian Railway has increased by 30%, meaning the company will have at least 40 million GEL more in revenue compared to the same period last year”, - noted Irakli Kobakhidze.

The Prime Minister of Georgia also spoke about a 10-year railway development plan, which includes the complete renewal of rolling stock.

“Georgian Railway will purchase 50 new locomotives and 1500 new wagons, as well as 10 new passenger trains, which will significantly increase freight volumes, improve comfort and reduce travel time for our passengers - citizens and visitors alike. Full modernization of railway stations and rail sections will be carried out, modern automated management systems will be introduced and new routes will be added. An 18-kilometer railway line connecting to Anaklia Port will be constructed. We have also announced the rehabilitation of the historic Borjomi-Bakuriani railway, the so-called Cuckoo, which is important for our society and from a tourism perspective. Overall, very substantial investments will be made in Georgian Railway over the next 10 years, with an estimated volume of 1.7 billion USD”, - noted Irakli Kobakhidze, thanking the Minister of Economy and CEO of Georgian Railway for successfully implementing reforms.

Mariam Kvrivishvili, Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia also spoke about the planned projects aimed at developing Georgian Railway. The Historic Renewal presentation was delivered by Lasha Abashidze, CEO of Georgian Railway JSC. The project envisages the modernization of infrastructure and rolling stock, aiming to strengthen the country's transport and logistics potential.

The event was attended by members of the Government and Parliament of Georgia, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps and the business community.