"Today, we are not requesting a new program. What matters most is to assess the progress made so far and, based on that assessment, determine whether we should continue cooperation within or outside the framework of the IMF program," said Levan Davitashvili, GD First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of Georgia, while responding to BMG’s question about the country’s current engagement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Davitashvili emphasized that an IMF program is not a goal in itself.
"Let’s be clear — our objective is not merely to have a program. Regardless of the form, what truly matters is achieving our national goals: Georgia’s development, economic advancement, and the effective implementation of structural reforms. If we can accomplish these goals, the format of our cooperation becomes secondary,” he stated.
He further noted that the Georgian government highly values its relationship with the IMF and appreciates the support received both from the Fund and the National Bank of Georgia, particularly within the context of Article IV consultations.
“We had thorough and extended discussions with the IMF, and in the coming days, we expect the Fund’s conclusions. I believe their assessment will accurately reflect the current state of the Georgian economy, including key forecasts,” Davitashvili added.
According to the Minister, the government believes that the core reforms outlined in the now-suspended IMF program have been successfully implemented. As such, he stressed that the consideration of a new program must be preceded by a clear evaluation of the previous one.
“With regard to the existing program, we maintain an open and transparent dialogue with the IMF. It is essential that the Fund clearly articulates its position on the implementation of the previous program. The Georgian government is confident that the major criteria and reforms under that program have been fulfilled and are actively ongoing. While the program is technically suspended, it is important to clarify its status before any discussions on a new framework begin. We cannot proceed without understanding what was achieved, what remains outstanding, and what status we are currently in,” he explained.
Davitashvili added that cooperation continues robustly at the expert level, even beyond the boundaries of the official program.
When asked by BMG whether the government’s position could be interpreted as an ultimatum, Davitashvili dismissed the notion.
"Absolutely not. We do not engage in diplomacy through ultimatums. Our communication is always grounded in Georgia’s national interests, which we express clearly at every level. That is our approach — open, constructive dialogue with our partners, including the IMF," he concluded.
