Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić praised Georgia’s economic performance during a joint press conference with Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili in Belgrade, calling the country a standout example in Europe.

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

According to Vučić, Georgia is set to become a model for the region next year. He commended President Kavelashvili and Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, noting that despite ongoing demonstrations and rallies, Georgia’s economy has recorded an impressive 9.4 percent growth rate—an achievement he described as unprecedented in Europe.

Vučić emphasized the significance of President Kavelashvili’s visit, calling it a historic moment. “It is a great honor to welcome the President of Georgia to Serbia. This is the first such visit in our history. Although our relations have always been friendly, we have not done enough in the past to fully develop them,” he said.

Highlighting the strong ties between the two nations, Vučić noted the positive perception of Georgia among the Serbian people. He pointed to the launch of direct flights between Tbilisi and Belgrade as a tangible result of growing cooperation and announced plans to open a Serbian embassy in Tbilisi to support business initiatives and deepen political engagement.

The two leaders discussed global and regional political developments, including issues related to the Caucasus, the Western Balkans, and South-Eastern Europe. Vučić underscored the importance of adhering to the UN Charter and respecting territorial integrity.

“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.