Economy Minister: intergovernmental meeting in China discussed removing visa requirements for Georgian citizens

Georgian Economy Minister Levan Davitashvili on Monday said a session of the intergovernmental trade and economic commission between China and Georgia had discussed topics including removal of visa requirements for Georgian citizens.

In his remarks over the matter, Davitashvili noted the “dynamics and potential” of economic cooperation with China was “very great”.

In China, for the first time after eight years, the meeting of the intergovernmental trade and economic commission was held, led by the Chinese Ministry of Trade and represented by the Ministry of Economy from the Georgian part. We covered all areas of cooperation within the commission”, Davitashvili said.

The Georgian official noted the meeting had reviewed development of investment opportunities and cooperation in the tourism sector. 

The decision taken by the [Georgian] Government to cancel visa requirements [for Chinese citizens] is very positive and has already been reflected in the results. The flow [of Chinese citizens to the country] has increased significantly”, Davitashvili continued.

The Georgian Minister added the meeting also reviewed removing visa requirements for Georgian nationals as a mirroring move, adding he hoped the step would “further strengthen” trade and economic ties between the two countries. 

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili in September announced introduction of visa-free travel for Chinese citizens, citing attracting visitors and mutual economic investments among “main interests” behind the decision.