Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić praised Georgia’s strong economic performance during a joint press conference with Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili in Belgrade, highlighting the country as a rare success story in Europe.

“Show me a country in Europe with a level of economic growth comparable to Georgia’s,” Vučić said. “I want to congratulate Georgia, the Georgian people, and the Georgian state on these remarkable results.”

Vučić expressed confidence that Georgia would emerge as a regional model by next year. He thanked President Kavelashvili and Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze for what he described as extraordinary economic achievements, noting that public demonstrations and protests—similar to those seen in Serbia—have not hindered Georgia’s progress.

“You may see images of protests and rallies, as we see them here, but Georgia’s success is particularly striking,” Vučić stated. “Despite these challenges, the country has recorded a 9.4 percent growth rate. Show me another country in Europe that can point to such impressive economic performance.”

He concluded by reiterating his congratulations, emphasizing that Georgia’s results are outstanding and positioning the country as a clear benchmark for the region in the year ahead.

“I am grateful to Georgia for respecting Serbia’s territorial integrity, just as Serbia respects Georgia’s,” Vučić said. “Though we are small to medium-sized countries, we firmly uphold international law.”

He also announced that a joint committee would soon begin strategic talks on a free trade agreement, which he said would bring mutual benefits. Vučić highlighted Georgia’s geopolitical importance and noted that the expected agreement next year would improve access to Georgian products at competitive prices.

In addition, the leaders discussed expanding cooperation in agriculture, artificial intelligence, and defense, as well as continued mutual support within the United Nations and other international organizations.

Concluding his remarks, Vučić said President Kavelashvili would hold several meetings during his stay in Serbia and reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations.