MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

Mariam Kvrivishvili, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, alongside Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, congratulated Georgian Railway employees on Railway Worker’s Day.

In her speech, the Minister thanked the railway staff for their professionalism and noted that Georgian Railway is entering an entirely new stage of development.

“For 154 years, Georgian Railway has been an integral part of our country’s economic development, regional transit, and the daily lives of our people. The main creators of this rich history are you - the people who serve our country daily with professionalism, responsibility and dedication. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for your hard work and loyalty. Today, Georgian Railway is entering a completely new era of development. As a result of the efficient performance of the new management, significant changes have been implemented in corporate governance, operational processes have been improved and efficiency has been substantially increased,” – Mariam Kvrivishvili said.

The Minister highlighted the current statistical indicators, noting that in the first nine months of 2026, Georgian Railway’s net profit nearly doubled, reaching 175 million GEL.

“Freight transportation increased by 13%, while cargo transit time through Georgia was cut in half. These results allowed us to raise the salaries of frontline railway workers by approximately 20%, effective January 1, 2027,” – the Minister stated.

According to Mariam Kvrivishvili, Georgia has historically served as a bridge connecting regions and economies. She emphasized that today, as international transport routes grow increasingly vital, the country’s strategic role becomes even more paramount, with Georgian Railway standing as one of the key pillars of this process.

“To strengthen Georgia’s positioning as a strong, reliable, and competitive transport partner, approximately 2 billion GEL will be invested in Georgian Railway over the next three years. The procurement process for around 50 new locomotives and 10 new passenger trains is already underway. Today, right here, the first 50 of 200 new freight wagons purchased by Georgian Railway are on display, which have already been deployed into daily operations. For us, the railway is not just about cargo transportation and economic metrics. Iit connects people, cities and regions, creating new opportunities for national growth. That is why I am delighted to announce that starting in December, the historical Borjomi-Bakuriani narrow-gauge railway - our beloved “Kukushka” - will return to its route,” - Mariam Kvrivishvili noted.

Kvrivishvili added that rehabilitation works are near completion, and the design of the carriages, specifically chosen for this project, harmonizes exceptionally well with Bakuriani’s natural environment and historic character.

“We wanted this to be not just a modernized train, but to recreate the unique atmosphere and spirit that has accompanied this route for decades. I am confident its return will bring back warm childhood memories for many and allow the new generation to experience one of Georgia’s most extraordinary railway journeys. This will be a special gift both for railway workers and for the whole of Georgia,” – the Minister said.

During the ceremonial event dedicated to Railway Worker’s Day, Mariam Kvrivishvili expressed her gratitude to the Prime Minister, as well as to her Deputy Minister and the General Director of Georgian Railway.

“I would like to extend special thanks to the Prime Minister for his involvement and unwavering support in the development of Georgian Railway. Special gratitude also goes to my Deputy, Ms. Tamar Ioseliani, for her effective and dedicated management, as well as to the head of Georgian Railway, Mr. Lasha Abashidze,” – Mariam Kvrivishvili remarked in her address.

Kvrivishvili also expressed confidence that through joint efforts, the sector will grow even stronger and continue to make significant contributions to the country’s development.

“I am convinced that through our joint efforts, combined with your professionalism and dedication, Georgian Railway will grow stronger and contribute significantly to our country’s economic development, deepening regional cooperation, and consolidating Georgia’s strategic role,” – the Minister stated.

As part of the event, the General Director of Georgian Railway awarded the title of “Honorary Railway Worker” to distinguished employees, thanking them for their dedicated service. The ceremony was attended by representatives of the executive and legislative branches, as well as railway staff.