Parliament official: China strategic cooperation opens opportunities for “rapid economic development”

David Songulashvili, the Chair of the Sector Economy and Economic Policy Committee of the Georgian Parliament, on Wednesday said the country’s strategic cooperation with China provided opportunities for “rapid economic development”.

He noted it was “important” to support China for the development of the Middle Corridor, a transportation route network connecting China with Europe through the South Caucasus region.

When we talk about the development of the Middle Corridor [it is important to take into account] the structure of the Chinese economy which is, in fact, a production-based structure, and China generates a significant flow of goods to the west. Therefore, China's support for the development of the Middle Corridor is important”, he said in an interview with the Georgian Public Broadcaster.

Songulashvili said the strategy and “main line” of the ruling Georgian Dream party was Georgia to continue its “stable” and “rapid economic development” together with its “strategic partners”.

The official mentioned the recent visit of a delegation of the Georgian Dream party led by its Chair Irakli Kobakhidze to China, saying “very important” meetings were held in the country.

In fact, it is the country with the second-largest economy, and it is important to actively cooperate with a country with such an economy”, he said.

Songulashvili also highlighted the strategic partnership established last year between the countries and said relations with China further increased opportunities for attracting investments and sectoral development.

He noted during the Georgian delegation’s visit to China issues related to investments, tourism, visa-free travel and trade relations were discussed in addition to the Middle Corridor. 

The official added “relevant results” of the visit would be visible “very soon".