Maka Botchorishvili: Georgia Is Prepared to Deepen Partnerships and Strengthen Its Role in Eurasian Transit Corridors

Georgia’s strategic location has shaped our history, culture, and plays a significant role in the geopolitical context. This strategic importance has grown even more critical due to recent events, particularly after Russia’s war against Ukraine” – stated Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili during her address at the panel discussion “Connecting Europe and Asia: The Path to Partnership and Prosperity”, held within the framework of the Dubrovnik Forum in Croatia.In her remarks, the Minister emphasized Georgia’s role in regional transport and energy connectivity. She spoke about the opportunities for linking the European Union with Asian and Eastern countries, underlining Georgia’s ambition to become a hub for trade and economic cooperation. “We have immense potential and are actively working to promote the Middle Corridor, collaborating with Central Asian countries and nations in the East. This is crucial for both Europe and our region,” said Minister Botchorishvili.She also addressed Georgia’s economic achievements and the importance of regional cooperation. Highlighting Georgia’s open markets, economic freedom, and business-friendly environment, she noted that the country has become a recognized example of successful reform and rapid development. “This economic stability is vital for our European future, as integration into the European Union requires consistent development, economic growth, and ongoing reforms,” the Foreign Minister noted, stressing Georgia’s leading positions in international rankings.Speaking on Georgia-EU relations, Maka Botchorishvili reaffirmed that Georgia is a European country with a clearly defined European identity and centuries-long aspirations toward Europe. “We firmly believe that without Georgia, achieving security and stability in Europe will be challenging, and envisioning a strong, economically robust, peaceful, and stable European Union will be incomplete,” she stated.The Minister also underlined that the Russian occupation remains the principal threat to Georgia’s security. She emphasized the importance of assessing the situation in Georgia objectively, taking into account the broader geopolitical context and recognizing Georgia’s strategic role.On 11-12 July 2025, Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili is on an official visit to Croatia, participating in the 2025 Dubrovnik Forum at the invitation of Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman. The Forum serves as a key platform for international dialogue, where participants engage in discussions on regional, European, and global challenges, potential solutions, ongoing geopolitical transformations, and emerging opportunities for cooperation.The conference gathers political leaders, foreign ministers, policy experts, scholars, and other high-ranking officials from various countries.During the visit, Minister Botchorishvili also held a series of bilateral meetings with her counterparts.