Shalva Papuashvili, Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia, addressed the 66th General Assembly of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC), expressing gratitude to participants for their commitment to regional dialogue, cooperation, and sustainable development.

Papuashvili acknowledged the challenges posed by Russia’s war in Ukraine and its impact on the Black Sea region but stressed that BSEC has remained operational, continuing to promote dialogue and meaningful regional outcomes.

“The Black Sea region’s strategic, economic, and security importance has grown. Despite complex geopolitical challenges, we must work together to enhance stability, security, and prosperity,” he said. Papuashvili emphasized that lasting peace is the foundation for growth, highlighting support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as ongoing efforts toward a peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia and normalization between Armenia and Turkiye.

Connectivity remains a central focus: “Physical, digital, economic, and human connectivity must underpin our cooperation. Projects like the Middle Corridor, the Black Sea submarine electricity and fibre-optic cables, and ferry-feeder services have the potential to transform the region. We also welcome the Blue Port Index project, boosting Black Sea port efficiency.”

On parliamentary diplomacy, Papuashvili noted, “Dialogue fosters stability, and stability enables development. Georgia assumes the PABSEC Presidency and BSEC Chairmanship-in-Office with the goal of advancing connectivity, economic cooperation, and parliamentary collaboration.”

He concluded, “Through close cooperation with member states and BSEC bodies, we aim to build a Black Sea region defined by collaboration, opportunity, and shared growth.”