The crisis in the Middle East further increases the importance of the Middle Corridor - Georgia continues to play a central role in the development of the Middle Corridor, - Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), said in response to a question from an InterpressNews reporter.

According to him, the transit routes and geopolitical risks changed due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East provide an additional impetus for the development of the Middle Corridor.

He also noted that in Georgia, which is an important connecting link between Asia and Europe, ADB will strengthen its support in the future for the renewal of key transport corridors.

“I visited your country a few months ago and I believe that Georgia continues to play a central role in the Middle Corridor. As global trade routes change and geopolitical risks increase, the Middle Corridor is becoming increasingly important. The crisis in the Middle East further enhances the importance of the Middle Corridor.

Georgia is an important link between Asia and Europe. Therefore, the Asian Development Bank supports the development of the corridor through Georgia through investments in infrastructure projects and reforms. This contributes to improving Georgia’s connectivity, increasing economic activity, and developing tourism.

ADB recently completed the Rikoti section of the East-West Highway. Within the framework of the planned road and rail projects, ADB will continue to strengthen its support for the renewal of key transport corridors," said Masato Kanda.

Samarkand is hosting the 59th meeting of the Asian Development Bank on May 3-6. An InterpressNews reporter is on site and will cover the main issues related to the summit.