An economic forum titled “Global Political Changes and the New International Economic Agenda – Challenges and Opportunities for Georgia” was held at the Parliament of Georgia.

The forum was opened by the Speaker of Parliament, H.E. Shalva Papuashvili.

As the Speaker noted, in the context of contemporary global instability, the protection of national interests acquires particular importance.

“We often speak about national interests, which today constitute one of the leading priorities for many states and represent a key principle in state decision-making — serving national interests. The government and business must act as allies in advancing these national interests, which, in the case of business, is expressed through social responsibility”, - stated Shalva Papuashvili.

The Speaker also addressed cooperation between the state and the business sector, as well as Georgia’s potential as a connecting corridor between Europe and Asia.

“Given global developments, Georgia may gain new opportunities as one of the stable corridors linking Europe and Asia. The business sector must adapt to this trend in order to fully utilize the country’s potential as a connecting corridor”, - he added.

The panel discussion also featured the Chair of the Economic Policy Committee, Shota Berekashvili, and the Chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, Nikoloz Samkharadze.

In his remarks, Shota Berekashvili placed particular emphasis on strategic directions for Georgia’s economic growth in the context of global changes, the role of the Middle Corridor, and the development of transport and logistics infrastructure.

“Both the business sector and the Parliament, as well as the government, agree that peace plays a crucial role in Georgia and the region. Peace creates added value, which in turn promotes increased investment in the country and, consequently, economic development”, - stated Shota Berekashvili.

Nikoloz Samkharadze spoke about Georgia’s foreign policy priorities, the country’s European integration process, and cooperation with international partners.

The event was moderated by Giorgi Abashishvili, founder and head of “Business Insider Georgia” and the Georgia Economic Forum.

The main objective of the discussions held within the framework of the Economic Forum is to analyze, from the perspectives of the state, analytical, and business sectors, the current challenges facing Georgia in the fields of economic policy, education, and European integration.