Georgia Celebrates European Figure Skating Gold Amidst Economic Debates and Domestic Developments
Today, Georgia celebrated a historic achievement in sports as the pair of Anastasia Metelkina and Luka Berulava secured the gold medal at the European Figure Skating Championships in Sheffield, marking the first time the country has claimed this title in pairs skating. Additionally, Nika Egadze demonstrated a strong performance, taking first place in the short program in the men's event. The Georgian handball national team also began its campaign in the European Championship, participating for the second consecutive time.
Economically, significant discussions revolved around the planned expansion of Tbilisi International Airport. Managed by TAV Georgia, a member of France’s Groupe ADP, the airport is set to receive $150 million in investments over the coming years to double its capacity to 10 million passengers by 2031. Other economic news highlighted growth in agricultural exports, with hazelnut exports increasing to 11.7 thousand tons valued at $117.4 million, a 69% increase in price compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, pear imports also saw a 17% rise. The official exchange rate of the US Dollar was reported at 2.6957 GEL. Premier Minister Irakli Kobakhidze also received a report from a Swiss expert on the first-ever assessment of natural hazards in 22 Georgian glacial valleys, a crucial step for environmental safety.
On the domestic front, a series of arrests garnered attention, including Nino Bardzimashvili for blocking a road during protests. Law enforcement also detained 16 members of radical fascist groups, 10 of whom are minors, for acts of violence. Furthermore, the prosecutor's office filed charges in the murder case of a woman in Marjanishvili, Tbilisi. A report by the Clooney Foundation on the trial of journalist Mzia Amaglobeli highlighted serious irregularities, raising concerns about judicial integrity. Discussions also continued regarding potential pardons for individuals involved in various cases, with lawmaker Gia Volski emphasizing the need for careful consideration.
Internationally, geopolitical statements and developments were closely watched. US President Donald Trump reiterated his stance on imposing tariffs against countries that disagree with the US on Greenland and publicly thanked Iran for reportedly canceling a "planned hanging" of protesters. In an ongoing context of tensions, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the prolongation of the war stems from Russia, as Ukrainian and American delegations prepare for a meeting in Florida. Separately, Russian ideologue Alexander Dugin sparked debate by stating that Russia cannot agree to the existence of a sovereign Georgia, a statement that underscores persistent regional challenges. The European Union also announced a further reduction in the price cap for Russian oil to $44.1 per barrel, effective February 1, 2026.