Tbilisi is hosting the Regional Forum on Sustainable Development: The Role of Peace in Sustainable Socio-Economic Growth.

Organised by the Tbilisi City Hall’s Economic Development Department, the two-day event was inaugurated by Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze alongside Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

In his opening speech, Kakha Kaladze emphasised the critical importance of peace and expressed gratitude to representatives of international organisations, local municipalities, experts, all participants, and the audience for their active engagement.

“This year’s forum is the largest to date, and its theme, The Role of Peace in Sustainable Socio-Economic Development, encapsulates our shared mission: to preserve peace. We have repeatedly stated that, not only in our country but throughout the region and the world, there is no alternative to peace today. We must all do everything in our power to safeguard it because peace is the foundation upon which we can achieve economic growth and national progress.

The recent events in Ukraine and around the world have once again reminded us of the high price of conflict and the irreplaceable value of peace. Economic growth, employment, and the attraction of investments are all attainable only within a peaceful, stable, and balanced environment. Therefore, peace is not merely a matter of national military or political strategy; it is a vital social and economic resource that influences every aspect of development from attracting investments and boosting tourism to addressing many other crucial issues,” Kaladze stated.

He further highlighted that this year’s forum would address pressing topics such as improving healthcare accessibility and innovation, environmental protection and ecology, real estate market trends, and modern developments in construction. Participants will also discuss demographic challenges, migration, spatial planning, transport reforms, and other essential issues vital to the city’s growth.

“Our strategic goal is to create additional conditions for economic growth and sustainable development. This includes strengthening systemic economic foundations, implementing people-centred policies, fostering innovative ecosystems, and enhancing municipal healthcare services. I wish you productive discussions and fruitful cooperation so that our country and capital can continue to improve. Let’s strive to be among the best examples of a small nation, renowned not only for its culture, viticulture, and rich history but also as a cornerstone of peacebuilding, development, and innovation,” the Tbilisi Mayor concluded.

According to the Tbilisi City Hall, the Regional Forum for Sustainable Development annually brings together local and international speakers, experts from diverse fields, municipal representatives, and academics.

The event aims to facilitate the exchange of experiences, modern approaches, and innovative ideas, thereby creating a long-term, sustainable framework for cooperation and urban development. Topics on the agenda include sustainable economic growth, Georgia’s 8,000-year-old winemaking tradition, healthcare access and innovation, renewable energy and development, circular economy, and emerging trends in construction.

Participants will include members of the Georgian government, municipal mayors and council members, local and international speakers, industry experts, academics, business representatives, and diplomatic officials.