MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development spoke about the importance of the water sector in the country’s economic and social development process at the First International Water Futures Forum. As Mariam Kvrivishvili noted in her speech, water as a resource is of the greatest importance for Georgia in terms of the development of numerous sectors.

“We do not have many resources; however, water is distinguished among them, creating special value in both social and economic directions. We must emphasise the importance of the energy sector, of which water as a resource is an integral part. Naturally, there is a particular interest in developing hydroelectric power plants in the country, for which we must exercise special care toward water resources,” – the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development noted. 

The first International Water Futures Forum is organised by Georgian Water and Power (GWP) and its investor, the international company Aqualia. Participants in the forum include representatives of state agencies, regulatory bodies, international institutions and private operators. 

In the panel discussion “Government Water Policy, Responsibility and Future Vision,” Mariam Kvrivishvili spoke about the Georgian Government’s vision, which considers water resources as one of the country’s most important strategic advantages. The Minister also highlighted the government’s policy aimed at attracting and facilitating investment, including in the water sector. 

“It is important for the country to have a predictable, transparent environment and we must support all local or international investors in developing their business activities, as a strong business means a strong economy. I believe that the presence of such strong, reputable, and experienced companies as Aqualia and Georgian Water and Power (GWP) in Georgia further strengthens our country’s water sector. When we speak of economic development, it is important to approach each direction that contributes particularly to the country’s economic development and security, including energy security, with great diligence and do everything for the development of these sectors” – Mariam Kvrivishvili highlighted.

The Minister also placed emphasis on the importance of having sound water infrastructure and noted that 100 million GEL was invested within a single year, 50% of which was directed specifically toward infrastructure development. “This directly signifies security, care for every citizen of our country, and naturally includes economic development” – the Minister said.

Mariam Kvrivishvili also introduced the forum participants to the country’s economic growth and development indicators and dynamics, noting that Georgia has had particular success in this regard since the average economic growth in 2021-2025 was 9,3%, while last year economic growth equaled to 7,5%. 

“I would like to particularly highlight certain sectors that demonstrated greater growth, resilience and stable development, including in such sectors as trade, tourism and aviation. All of this, of course, is in alignment and creates the ecosystem that ensures the correct development of Georgia’s economy, new opportunities, new jobs, and the growth of the well-being of every citizen of our country” – the Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development stated.