Georgian PM: Olympic peace flame in Bakuriani “reaffirms aspiration” to foster “healthy, united, peaceful Europe”

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Sunday said the lighting up of the Olympic flame in the country’s ski resort of Bakuriani for the European Youth Olympic Winter Festival during the day was a "historic” moment for domestic sports and “reaffirmed” the “unity of European countries to foster a healthy, united, and peaceful” continent.

[It] once again confirms all of us, 45 European countries, are united by one common goal - to live in a healthy, united and peaceful Europe”, he said during a speech at the ceremony.

Kobakhidze highlighted Georgia’s emergence as an “attractive destination” for winter sports, noting the Festival boasted participation from up to 1,000 athletes and over 700 officials from 45 countries.

We now stand alongside seven other European countries that have hosted both Summer and Winter Olympic festivals”, he said.

The Prime Minister emphasised the importance of “leaving a lasting legacy” from the Festival, which will be held in Bakuriani, the Black Sea city of Batumi and capital Tbilisi. He noted the event marked the first time the latter two locations were welcoming “such a big competition”, allowing them to showcase their potential on the international stage.

He also said the Government had allocated “hundreds of millions” of lari in stages to ensure “top-tier standards” for the Festival.

Kobakhidze mentioned this investment was part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing sports infrastructure, promoting a healthy lifestyle among the youth, and fostering winter sports culture.

Highlights of the enhancements include the new Tbilisi Ice Arena, a biathlon stadium, and the internationally compliant Batumi Ice Palace.

This winter, Georgia will host not only this [Festival] but also several world-class tournaments in our other resorts, Gudauri and Mestia. We thank all the participating countries, delegates, and heads of missions for placing their trust in us. We have made every effort to ensure the best possible conditions for them, from sports infrastructure to comfortable accommodations”, he said.

The Festival will also incorporate artificial intelligence for the first time in its history. An environmental initiative is also set to take place as trees will be planted in the Golden Forest in honour of all gold medal-winners from the event.

I am sure the Festival will elevate Georgia’s international profile and create new opportunities for future generations [...] I wish each athlete success and fans a memorable experience”, he said.

Spyros Capralos, the President of the European Olympic Committee, commended Kobakhidze for his efforts in facilitating a “high-calibre” Festival and presented him with a symbolic gift in recognition, the Government Administration said.

The Festival will run through February 16, featuring competitions in eight winter sports across the three locations.