Shalva Papuashvili met with Chairman of Chinese Parliament

The Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili, met with Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress.

According to the press service of the Parliament, at the meeting, the parties noted that bilateral relations between Georgia and China are developing dynamically in various directions, which is also reflected in high-level visits.

Shalva Papuashvili thanked the Chinese side for its support for Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Shalva Papuashvili also confirmed Georgia's commitment to the "One China principle." The parties noted that in today's unstable world, support for the fundamental principles of international law is gaining increasing importance.

According to Shalva Papuashvili, the Georgian Parliament attaches great importance to parliamentary diplomacy. In this regard, cooperation between the Georgian Parliament and the National People's Congress of China is developing successfully.

The parties confirmed their readiness to further deepen parliamentary ties, including through the development of cooperation between parliamentary administrations, sectoral committees and friendship groups.

The parties discussed areas of bilateral cooperation, including cooperation in the trade and economy, tourism, modern technologies, culture and education sectors. It was noted that China is one of Georgia's four largest trading partners, which is significantly facilitated by the free trade regime.

The meeting emphasized Chinese investments in Georgia. Shalva Papuashvili stated that Chinese companies are actively participating in ongoing infrastructure construction projects in Georgia.

Cooperation in the tourism sector was also discussed. It was noted that direct flights between Georgia and China contribute to the growth of tourist flows and the development of people-to-people ties.

The meeting focused on the transport and transit potential of Georgia. Shalva Papuashvili spoke about the potential of the Middle Corridor and the importance of cooperation with China in this regard. He stated that the Middle Corridor, against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, is the most effective alternative to the traditional Northern Corridor.

The parties agreed to continue the dialogue. The Chinese side confirmed its readiness to share experience with Georgia in various areas.

The Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia invited his Chinese counterpart to Georgia.

The meeting took place within the framework of Shalva Papuashvili’s official visit to the People’s Republic of China. The delegation, led by the Speaker of the Parliament, includes: First Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, Head of the Georgia-China Parliamentary Friendship Group Giorgi Volski; Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Nino Tsilosani, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Sozar Subari; Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee Nikoloz Samkharadze; Chairman of the Agriculture Committee Gela Samkharauli,” reads the information.