AIFC chief: Georgia can be a key financial bridge between Central Asia and Europe

“Georgia has significant potential to deepen economic and financial links between Central Asia and Europe,” said Renat Bekturov, Governor of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). He was speaking at the Tbilisi Finance Summit.

Bekturov said the summit is an important international platform for dialogue among the financial sector, policymakers and business, particularly on fintech, artificial intelligence and development of financial products. He said such international events help showcase Georgia’s potential, attract international partners and deepen dialogue on developing the country’s financial sector.

“Because Georgia sits between East and West, it is an important connecting point between businesses. It matters that international participants come to Georgia themselves, see the country’s opportunities and meet decision-makers,” Bekturov said.

The AIFC Governor highlighted the Middle Corridor as a crucial area of cooperation with Georgia, noting that its development requires enhanced financial links. He said both fintech companies and the traditional banking sector will play an important role in this process.

Bekturov also highlighted the development of capital markets, which help mobilise domestic and international financial resources for economic growth.

According to the National Bank of Georgia, Bekturov said the memorandum of cooperation signed between the AIFC and the National Bank of Georgia is an important foundation for deeper cooperation. The two sides will work together on a mutual market access project for licensed entities, which will help strengthen financial links between Central Asia and the South Caucasus.

The AIFC is an international financial hub based in Astana, Kazakhstan. It aims to attract investment into the country and the region, develop capital markets and strengthen the financial services sector. It brings together financial institutions, investment companies and other market participants, and promotes closer links with international financial markets.