Statement by the Permanent Representative of Georgia to the United Nations, Mr. Davit Bakradze, at the High-Level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on Middle-Income Countries, on the Theme: “Addressing Structural Barriers to Sustainable Development in Middle-Income Countries”

 

The Permanent Representative of Georgia to the United Nations emphasized the critical role of Middle-income Countries (MICs) in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Highlighting their share and role in the global economy, he underscored the unique challenges these countries face in today’s complex global landscape.

The Georgian representative stressed the need for tailored support for Middle-income Countries through knowledge sharing, capacity building, and policy guidance aligned with their national development priorities. He identified South-South and triangular cooperation as key leverage for exchanging development experiences and fostering joint efforts.

Mr. David Bakradze also reiterated the Georgian Government’s position on the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals in driving socio-economic development, job creation, and poverty alleviation. He highlited Georgia’s significant progress in reducing poverty and outlined further measures to eradicate poverty and inequality. Additionally, he noted the resilience of the Georgian economy, which achieved a 9.4% growth rate in 2024.

The statement also addressed the importance of overcoming the digital divide, a priority reflected in Georgia’s Strategy for the Development of the Digital Economy and Information Society of Georgia (2025–2030). This strategy aims to enhance digital integration across various sectors. Furthermore, leveraging its strategic location, Georgia is positioning itself as a “digital transit corridor” connecting Asia and Europe - an initiative particularly significant for landlocked developing countries.

As a country vulnerable to climate change, Georgia reaffirmed its commitment to a “green transition” with the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The representative emphasized that the objectives of this “green transition” are integrated into the nation’s energy and climate policies.

In conclusion, Georgia stressed that the Sustainable Development Goals cannot be fully realized without addressing the challenges faced by Middle-income Countries. The representative also highlighted the negative impact of Russia’s illegal occupation of the Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, which continues to hinder the conflict-affected population from benefiting from Georgia’s development progress