Today, ethnic Azerbaijanis play an important role in Georgia’s development

Caspian Energy (CE): In recent years, the size of both domestic and external investments have been increasing in various sectors of economy and infrastructure of Georgia. What are the needs of Kvemo Kartli region in terms of investments and in which sectors are investments being undertaken currently? 

Shota Rekhviashvili, State Representative in Kvemo Kartli region (Georgia):  Implementing local as well as regional and inter-state infrastructural or other projects, conditioned by profitable strategic geographic location of Georgia and its economic policy, which is oriented on attracting investors and simplifying taxation system, is essential for developing the Georgian economy. 11.4% of total population of Georgia resides in Kvemo Kartli. The region borders Azerbaijan and Armenia, while the shortest route, from North to South, lies through Georgia. Besides, close location to the capital of the region is also noteworthy. 

Industrial traditions, geographic location, and natural resources create an excellent environment for the development of business in the fields of agriculture, tourism and other fields of industry. Over 200 non-ferrous, ferrous and noble metals are quarried in Kvemo Kartli region, along with various types of construction and incrustation stones, including Basalt and Tufa. There are a number of thermal resources and hydro minerals in the region. All the fields of animal-breeding and fish-breeding are developed.

We should point out the resources for producing wind and solar energy, especially in Rustavi and Gardabani municipalities. As a result of surveys, it is possible to construct a wind station of 60 megawatts power in these regions, which can give 130 million kilowatt energy annually. 

Also, there is a potential of obtaining bio gas in Dmanisi and Tsalka municipalities. 

As for implemented investments, its amount increases annually and it covers almost all the fields. In recent years, foreign investments increased reasonably and exceeded several millions of USD in Kvemo Kartli region. Due to the needs and opportunities in the region, it is important for foreign investors to have ready-made business projects in which they can invest. In this term, researches are conducted and municipalities are taking relevant measures.