Georgian PM expresses readiness for “maximum contribution” to Ukraine’s recovery

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Tuesday expressed his Government’s  “readiness to make maximum contribution” to the recovery of Ukraine and support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country amid its ongoing war with Russia.

Kobakhidze told the media at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin that Georgia’s stance on the "events in the region", particularly regarding Russia’s military aggression, would be highlighted at the event.

The Prime Minister emphasised the “duty of Georgia and its people” to support the restoration of Ukraine “in solidarity with the Ukrainian people”, and highlighted the “historical relationship” between the two nations, stating it was “essential” for Georgia to work with its partners to facilitate Ukraine’s recovery.

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We support Ukraine on all platforms, including in its sovereignty and territorial integrity. It is crucial to discuss measures that should be taken to rebuild Ukraine once peace is established in our friendly country”, Kobakhidze said.

The Georgian people stand out with their special solidarity with the Ukrainian people. We are connected by a special historical relationship between our peoples, and it is our duty to do everything to promote the restoration of Ukraine together with our partners”, he added.

The Prime Minister noted the humanitarian aid sent from Georgia to Ukraine and added the country was hosting around 26,000 Ukrainian refugees and providing them with “free services in various ways”.

Of course, we take special care of Ukrainian children. They are provided with free education in Georgia, including in the Ukrainian language. This is our responsibility, our duty to the Ukrainian people”, Kobakhidze said.

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The PM stressed “no political decisions” would “hinder Georgia from providing assistance to the Ukrainian people” despite tensions between the authorities on matters including recall of their ambassadors in 2022.

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There are difficulties between the authorities, primarily due to specific decisions such as the recalling of the Ukrainian Ambassador from Georgia and expulsion of the Georgian Ambassador to Ukraine. These actions were not ideal, but they will not deter us from providing maximum assistance to the Ukrainian people”, Kobakhidze said.

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Running between Tuesday and Wednesday, the Conference aims to garner international support for Ukraine’s recovery, reconstruction, reforms and modernisation.

The event will focus on mobilising the private sector for recovery and economic growth, social recovery and human capital for Ukraine’s future, restoration of municipalities and regions, and accession to the European Union and related reforms.

Accompanying the Prime Minister to Berlin are Ilia Darchiashvili, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Levan Zhorzholiani, the Head of the Government Administration.