Black Sea regional security is now a historic challenge and we have to work together, with our Western allies to ensure stability and lasting peace in this complicated area, said the Speaker of the Parliament in his address delivered at the plenary session in the Senate of Romania.

“We are deeply grateful for each step and statement of the Romanian side in support of Georgia. Such substantial aspects of our relations allowed us to elevate our longstanding and solid ties to a strategic partnership that brings our countries and peoples even closer than ever before. Our partnership has gained more relevance and depth along with Russia’s unjustified, illegal, and aggressive war in Ukraine. Our countries border on the Black Sea and the regional security of this part of the world takes the center stage of not only European but also the world security. The Black Sea regional security is now a historic challenge and we have to work together, with our Western allies to ensure stability and lasting peace in this complicated area. Also, the Black Sea is an area of opportunities. It has a strategic importance in terms of connectivity and energy security of Europe. The historic Silk Road, or as we often call it a “Middle Corridor”, is a shortest and cheapest transit route between Europe and Asia. Georgia is doing its best to enhance its role as a logistic center and hub for doing business in the region. We are committed to participate actively in major strategic projects and initiatives to contribute to strengthening Europe’s energy independence. Launching a new ferry service linking the port of Constanta in Romania with Poti in Georgia is a great example demonstrating our efforts to enhance Black Sea connectivity. Moreover, we believe that flagship project - Black Sea Submarine Electricity Cable has also a paramount potential to help the EU diversify its energy resources and promote clean energy transition”.

According to him, the efforts for the restoration of a historic silk road have already gained outcomes for Georgia – our country achieved two-digit economic growth for the last two years, the unemployment level is historically lowest, the direct foreign investments inflow mostly from the West European countries, trade has doubled since 2020, including export, the incomes from tourism are increased and the exchanges via ports, railway and airports are intensified.

“The Silk Road has a potential to bring more prosperity and well-being to all families of its members too, including here in Romania, on the other side of the Black Sea and a crucial link of the Road. We stand ready to utilize parliamentary diplomacy to boost our strategic partnership and fill it in with activities on the parliamentary level. With development of democratic institutions worldwide, the Parliaments take greater significance in international diplomatic relations. We are committed to enhancing bonds between our legislative bodies on the level of Speakers, friendship groups and committees. We believe that regular meaningful exchange will allow us to achieve tangible results. Experience of Romania on its EU and NATO membership paths is crucial for us and exchange on these issues will be highly appreciated”.