Maka Botchorishvili: “I believe Georgia, through its history, challenges, opportunities and policies, is one of the strongest examples of what multi-vector diplomacy means in practice”
“Today, as centres of power multiply and economic competition increasingly shapes international politics, the role of countries that connect rather than divide has become more important than ever. That is precisely the role Georgia plays today” - this was stated by the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Georgia, Maka Botchorishvili, during her speech at a panel discussion titled “Between Power Centres: Lessons from Multi-Vector Diplomacy” held within the framework of the Dubrovnik Forum in Croatia.
In her address, the Minister spoke about global geopolitical transformations, the importance of multivector diplomacy, and Georgia’s role in regional and international processes.
“The decisions we make today shape not only the future of our own countries, but also the international order that is formed before our eyes. That is why I believe Georgia, through its history, challenges, opportunities and policies, is one of the strongest examples of what multi-vector diplomacy means in practice,” stated Maka Botchorishvili.
According to her statement, in the context of the transformation of the global order, the importance of countries that play a bridging role between different regions and economic spaces is increasing.
“Georgia truly stands at a crossroads. Around us, different powers, competing visions and priorities require exceptional prudence and precision on our part,” emphasized the Minister.
A significant part of the Minister’s speech was devoted to the growing strategic importance of the Middle Corridor: “The Middle Corridor is no longer just a transport route. It is an emerging geo-economic corridor connecting Europe, the South Caucasus, Central Asia and the East. It is a space where trade, energy, digital connectivity, innovation, shared opportunities and common interests come together.”
Minister Botchorishvili placed particular emphasis on the importance of peace and security, noting that peace is the very foundation of economic development.
“A country with 20% of its territory under Russian occupation advocates for peace more than most - not out of weakness, but because it knows the true value of peace better than anyone else. That is why ensuring stability remains one of the highest priorities of Georgia's domestic and foreign policy,” highlighted Maka Botchorishvili.
According to Maka Botchorishvili, Georgia has in recent years emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in the region, accompanied by infrastructure development, increased investment, and the expansion of trade partnerships.
The Minister explained that, for Georgia, multivector diplomacy does not imply a choice between partners, but rather an expansion of cooperation: “For us, multi-vector diplomacy does not mean choosing between partners. It means building more partnerships,” she noted.
In addressing the issue of European integration, Maka Botchorishvili once again reaffirmed Georgia’s firm strategic choice.
“Georgia's multi-vector foreign policy has never meant - and does not mean - any ambiguity about our strategic choice. For us, Europe is far more than a political or economic union. It is a community of values. That is why integration into the European Union remains Georgia's firm strategic choice,” stated the Minister.
In this context, the Minister for Foreign Affairs also drew attention to the current dynamics in Georgia-European Union relations, stating that an isolationist approach is not consistent with the interests of bilateral cooperation.
“Brussels’ attempt to respond to Georgia with a policy of ignorance and isolation - towards a country that is vital for Europe’s connectivity and has been a reliable partner for many years - is not only unfair but also a strategic mistake,” highlighted the Minister.
In conclusion, the Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized the necessity of dialogue and international cooperation in the contemporary world, noting that sustainable peace and progress are founded on collective efforts.