Key Facts About Georgia: Location, Capital and Strategic Importance

Introduction: Georgia is a country in the South Caucasus region, situated between Eastern Europe and Western Asia, with an important geographical position between the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains.

Key pointers

  • Capital: Tbilisi.

  • Region: South Caucasus.

  • Neighbouring countries: Russia, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Türkiye.

  • Western boundary: Black Sea.

  • Mountain system: Greater Caucasus Mountains in the north and Lesser Caucasus ranges in the south.

  • Major rivers: The Kura (Mtkvari) and Rioni are important rivers.

  • Official language: Georgian.

  • Currency: Georgian lari.

  • Historical background: Former Soviet republic; it declared independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

  • Strategic significance: Its position connects the Black Sea region with the South Caucasus and routes toward Central Asia.

  • International relevance: Georgia is a member of the United Nations and the Council of Europe.

UPSC focus: Do not confuse the country Georgia with the U.S. state of Georgia. The country lies in the Caucasus region and has a Black Sea coastline.