The relationship between Georgia and Iran dates back to ancient times. From the early reign of the Achaemenid rulers, these relations became increasingly intensive. The Achaemenid Kingdom had connections with both Iberia (Kartli) and the Georgian Kingdom of Colchis. These interactions were distinguished by their diversity, encompassing political, military, cultural, religious, and trade-economic aspects.
The Achaemenid shahs extended their political influence over vast territories, including the South Caucasus and its inhabitants, particularly Armenian and some Georgian tribes. To consolidate their power, the Achaemenids implemented administrative reforms in the territories under their control, dividing them into satrapies. These satrapies included parts of Georgia as well. Each satrapy, depending on its status, had specific obligations toward the central authority (the Achaemenid shahs).
It is noteworthy that the obligations of the Kingdoms of Colchis and Iberia (which were part of the 18^th and 19^th satrapies) differed from those of other satrapies. Unlike others, they enjoyed certain privileges, which indicate some unique characteristics of Georgian-Iranian relations.
An important aspect of these relations was the religious factor. Zoroastrianism, which was widely practiced in Achaemenid Persia, was not unfamiliar to Georgia. The spread of Zoroastrianism in Georgia is confirmed by various archaeological findings. The traces of Zoroastrian influence in Georgia become more evident toward the later period of Achaemenid rule.