Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday said that Georgia was proud of the rapid development of relations with China in recent years, emphasising that the launch of direct flights between Tbilisi and Shanghai would make a significant contribution to deepening bilateral cooperation.

Speaking at an event marking the inauguration of regular direct flights between Tbilisi and Shanghai, the Prime Minister described the new air route as another important outcome of the strategic partnership between Georgia and China.

Kobakhidze noted that the two countries signed a strategic partnership agreement around two years ago, which has already produced tangible results, and recently elevated their ties further by signing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement.

He further added that China holds exceptional importance for Georgia as a partner and friend. 

Kobakhidze described China as a peaceful country focused on development, modernisation, and progress, adding that its achievements across various sectors reflect the policies of Chinese President Xi Jinping and the country’s leadership.

“We are doing everything possible to further strengthen our bilateral relations. Close political cooperation between Georgia and China is of great importance to us. We are pleased that our economic partnership is developing very rapidly, and we pay special attention to cooperation in education and culture. Direct flights will make a significant contribution to the development of our bilateral relations”, he said.

The Prime Minister further thanked everyone whose efforts made the launch of regular direct flights between Tbilisi and Shanghai possible.

The significance of the new route was also highlighted by China Eastern Airlines Vice President He Xiaoquan and Chinese Ambassador to Georgia Zhou Qian, who thanked the Georgian Government for its support.

The event was attended by members of the Georgian Government and Parliament, as well as representatives of China Eastern Airlines and the aviation sector.

Direct air service between Tbilisi and Shanghai has officially commenced, with China Eastern Airlines - one of China’s largest carriers - entering the Georgian aviation market. The airline has operated the first-ever direct scheduled flight between the two cities and will offer services three times a week, on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.