The Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia H.E. Shalva Papuashvili met with the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, Zhao Leji.

The parties noted that bilateral relations between Georgia and China are developing dynamically across various sectors, as reflected in the exchange of high-level visits.

Shalva Papuashvili thanked the Chinese side for its support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He also reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment to the “One China Principle”.

The parties emphasized that, in today’s unstable world, support for the fundamental principles of international law is becoming increasingly important.

According to Shalva Papuashvili, the Parliament of Georgia attaches great importance to parliamentary diplomacy. In this regard, cooperation between the Parliament of Georgia and the National People’s Congress of China has been developing successfully.

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

The discussions also covered areas of bilateral cooperation, including trade and economy, tourism, modern technologies, culture, and education. It was noted that China is among Georgia’s four largest trading partners, significantly supported by the free trade regime.

The meeting highlighted Chinese investments in Georgia.

Shalva Papuashvili stated that Chinese companies are actively involved in ongoing infrastructure construction projects in Georgia.

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

Particular attention was paid to Georgia’s transport and transit potential.

Shalva Papuashvili spoke about the potential of the Middle Corridor and the importance of cooperation with China in this regard. He stated that, amid geopolitical tensions, the Middle Corridor represents the most effective alternative to the traditional Northern Corridor.

The parties agreed to continue dialogue. The Chinese side reaffirmed its readiness to share experience with Georgia in various fields.

The Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia invited his Chinese counterpart to visit 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 Parliament includes: First Vice Speaker of Parliament and Head of the Georgia–China Parliamentary Friendship Group Giorgi Volski; Vice Speakers Nino Tsilosani and Sozar Subari; Chair of the Foreign Relations Committee Nikoloz Samkharadze; and Chair of the Agriculture Committee Gela Samkharauli.