“It is a great honour for me to participate today in the Tbilisi Regional Forum for Sustainable Development, which has, over the years, evolved into a vital platform for discussing pressing issues. The main focus of this year’s forum is the role of peace, a theme that is neither accidental nor merely symbolic, but central to our future,” said the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Maka Botchorishvili.

According to the Minister, among European cities, Tbilisi stands out as a place where war and its devastating aftermath are not distant memories but stark realities that continue to shape our lives.

“Our recent history has taught us that progress cannot be achieved without peace. That is why we are committed to maintaining peace in our country and, consequently, securing a brighter future. Our city, developed at the crossroads of the West and the East, is distinguished by its diversity and unique character. This cultural richness vividly reflects the historical role Georgia has played for centuries. Today, much is said about connectivity, the strategic importance of the Middle Corridor, and Georgia’s role in this geopolitical landscape. The foundation for realising our country’s strategic objectives is sustainable peace in the region. We believe that the broader the borders of peace, the greater our capabilities become. Therefore, we place immense importance on regional stability and are always ready to contribute constructively to the normalisation of relations among our neighbours.

Dear guests, today Georgia is proud of its rapid economic growth, which allows us to focus even more on the development of our city,” Botchorishvili stated.

According to Maka Botchorishvili, alongside development come increasing challenges that demand effective responses to ensure citizens live in a safe, attractive, and healthy environment.

“The attractiveness of our city continues to grow, bolstered by our distinctive culture of hospitality. This naturally leads to a rising number of tourists, which is neither surprising nor accidental. The development of tourism creates new economic opportunities but also elevates the expectations of what the city must offer to be truly appealing to everyone.

Georgia aspires to join the European Union, and in this pursuit, numerous significant steps have been taken to align our political, economic, and social systems with European standards. Good governance, strong cooperation, and a deep sense of national pride have driven progress that is evident to all today.

Tbilisi ten years ago and Tbilisi today are the best examples of how profound change can occur without sacrificing the core of our identity. In an era of globalization, development without international cooperation is unimaginable. Sharing experiences, exploring new opportunities, and working together to achieve common goals exemplify the essence of true partnership.

Today’s forum provides an excellent opportunity to address these key issues, which are vital for the development of our city and country in today’s world. I wish you an engaging, productive discussion and a pleasant stay in our beautiful capital,” Botchorishvili concluded.