A Historic Decision
On Monday, February 26, 2024, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced that the Chinese Government had decided to introduce visa-free travel for Georgian citizens. This means that Georgian nationals will be able to stay in China without a visa for up to 30 daysThis is an important decision that will make it easier for our fellow citizens to travel to China and will create new opportunities for further development of political, economic and cultural ties between Georgia and China, Kobakhidze said at a Government meeting.
The visa-free regime is a reciprocal gesture, as Georgia had already granted visa-free access to Chinese citizens in September 2023. The move was welcomed by both sides as a sign of friendship and mutual trust. The visa-free regime is expected to increase tourism, trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
A Strategic Partnership
The visa-free regime is also a reflection of the strategic partnership agreement that Georgia and China signed in July 2023, during Kobakhidze’s visit to Beijing. The agreement covers various areas of cooperation, such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, education, science, technology, culture, and security. The agreement also reaffirms the respect for each other’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in internal affairs.
Georgia and China have been developing their relations steadily since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992. China is Georgia’s fourth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $1.2 billion in 2023. China is also a major investor in Georgia, with projects in transportation, energy, and industrial zones. Georgia is also a participant in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through infrastructure and trade networks.
A Balancing Act
Georgia’s closer ties with China come at a time when the country is facing challenges in its relations with its traditional partners, such as the United States and the European Union. Georgia has been accused of having an ambivalent attitude toward Russia, which continues its full-scale invasion of Ukraine launched in February 2022. Georgia has also been criticized for its democratic backsliding, human rights violations, and political polarization.
Georgia, however, maintains that its foreign policy is based on pragmatism and balance. Georgia is committed to its Euro-Atlantic integration and supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. Georgia also values its strategic partnership with the United States and seeks to deepen its cooperation with the European Union. Georgia sees China as a friend and a partner, but not as an alternative to its Western orientation.
Georgia hopes that its visa-free regime with China will not only benefit its citizens, but also contribute to regional stability and global peace. Georgia believes that its unique geographic location and cultural diversity can serve as a bridge between different civilizations and foster dialogue and understanding.
