“It is my great honor to contribute to the discussion on parliamentary diplomacy in the framework of the first Summit of Speakers and Presidents of Parliament of PAM Members and Partners. Georgia had historical ties with the Mediterranean region for millennia and we are more than happy to continue the tradition after formally gaining independence 35 years ago”, - stated the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, H.E. Shalva Papuashvili, while addressing the First Summit of Speakers of Parliament of the member and partner states of the PAM.

As Shalva Papuashvili noted, the current fragmented international system is characterised by geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and shifting security dynamics.

“We are witnessing the erosion of the international rules-based order that is an alarming development that challenges the very foundations of stability, cooperation, and trust among nations.

I am particularly privileged to stand before you in my capacity as President of PABSEC, representing the voice of the Parliamentarians of the countries from the Black Sea region. Our region, these days, is at the very heart of world instability, as we witness the Russian-Ukrainian war, which is raging for more than four years now.

How can parliamentary diplomacy contribute to regional peace and inter-regional cooperation? As the global organizations fail to deliver, regional forums acquire a unique opportunity to make a difference: what unites us is common pragmatic interests which are directly delegated to us by our populations because Parliaments express the popular will directly”, - Shalva Papuashvili stated.

According to his assessment, regional organisations create a framework through which neighbouring countries can engage in dialogue, address common challenges, and achieve practical solutions.

“Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the Gulf regions are interconnected spaces where greater cooperation can deliver tangible outcomes. Enhanced parliamentary exchange can serve as a bridge for stability, innovation, and sustainable development. These ties can give peace a better chance.

What do we see as key areas of inter-regional cooperation for peace and stability?

Connectivity stands at the heart of this cooperation. The development of strategic transit routes, including the Middle Corridor, is reshaping trade and economic relations between Europe and Asia. These corridors are channels of cooperation, bringing our regions closer together and reducing vulnerabilities in global supply chains”, - stated the Speaker of Parliament.

According to him, the issue of connectivity is closely linked to energy security, which has become a decisive issue for the shared future of the regions. Diversification of energy sources and routes is essential for ensuring stability and resilience, particularly for Europe.

“By fostering cooperation on alternative energy resources and infrastructure, we contribute to economic growth, to a more secure and sustainable energy landscape. However, for strengthening resilience, trust has vital importance. This is why, we, as parliamentarians, must continue to engage in open dialogue, even when perspectives differ. I am proud to say that in these turbulent times, the countries of the South Caucasus – Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan – are offering a unique and exceptional wisdom, vision, and hope for peace, cooperation, and development.

Georgia remains firmly committed to advancing cooperation between the Black Sea, Euro-Mediterranean and the Gulf regions. We believe that by working together, especially through regional platforms such as PABSEC and PAM, we can deliver tangible results for our citizens, and shape a more stable and prosperous future for our regions”, - Shalva Papuashvili stated.