MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

A special event was held at the World Trade Organization (WTO) headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, commemorating the 25th anniversary of Georgia’s accession to the WTO.

The event was organized by the Permanent Representation of Georgia to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, attended the ceremony.

Speakers at the event included Mikheil Sarjveladze, Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health and Social Protection of Georgia; Genadi Arveladze, Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development; Revaz Lominadze, Permanent Representative of Georgia to the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva; as well as representatives from the diplomatic corps and other invited guests.

In his address, the Deputy Minister congratulated the participants on the 25th anniversary of Georgia’s accession to the WTO. Arveladze thanked the World Trade Organization Secretariat for its support. “Today, Georgia is proud to be recognized as a reliable trading partner, a leader in liberal economic principles, and a loyal member of the multilateral trading system. The WTO has played a central role in this progress by providing a stable foundation for trade and encouraging dialogue, reforms, and cooperation” – Genadi Arveladze stated.

The Deputy Minister noted that despite the WTO offering opportunities for global integration, Georgia continues to sign preferential trade agreements with markets both within and outside the region. He stated that Georgia has numerous free trade agreements, covering quality markets with over 2,3 billion consumers and ensuring increased market access for the Georgian private sector.

According to Genadi Arveladze, Georgia has actively participated in WTO initiatives aimed at strengthening the multilateral trading system. Deputy Minister highlighted that 25 years ago, Georgia took a decisive step towards integration into the global economy by joining the WTO. “This was a commitment that our policies would align with international standards, promote transparency, and actively participate in the global trading system. Since then, Georgia has undergone significant trade and economic transformation. We have built a more open, sustainable, and competitive economy. We have created a trade framework that is predictable and favorable for investors. Our exporters enjoy increased access to global markets, while consumers benefit from a wide selection of high-quality goods and services” – Genadi Arveladze noted.

As part of the event, an exhibition was organized, showcasing information related to the economic reforms implemented by Georgia since its accession to the World Trade Organization.