Nikoloz Samkharadze, Chair of the Foreign Relations Committee, serves on the official visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to attend the 46TH General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) “Parliament at the Forefront for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable ASEAN”, dedicated to inclusive growth and sustainable development. 

In his address, Mr. Samkharadze reviewed the prospects of cooperation between Georgia and the Southeast Asia countries. 

 

“The enhancement of our relationship with Southeast Asian countries is a priority of our foreign policy. The objective we have outlined necessitated significant steps in our relations with ASEAN countries in the tourism, cultural, environmental protection and education domains”, - he stated.

 

He emphasized the dynamics of economic and trade relations with Southeast Asian countries and highlighted the significance of the Middle Corridor project for Eurasia. 

 

N. Samkharadze touched upon the regional security challenges, disrespect of international law by various actors, the Russian aggression in Ukraine and the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. 

 

Speaking about the grave situation in the occupied regions of Georgia, he accentuated the violation of the rights of Georgians, the abduction of citizens across the occupation line, and the exile of Georgians from Abkhazia and the Tskhinvali region. 

 

“I would like to reiterate the importance of international social responsibility in protecting the principles of international law. I also express my gratitude to the ASEAN countries for their support of Georgia’s territorial integrity. The effective application of parliamentary diplomacy plays a pivotal role in the facilitation of peace, prosperity and sustainable development both regionally and globally”, - he stated.

 

Mr. Samkharadze dwelt on the economic growth in Georgia. As per his account, Georgia has achieved significant progress in international ratings on the rule of law, business-friendly environ, effective government, and budget transparency, which evidences the rapid institutional and economic advancement of the country. 

 

He extended his offer to the ASEAN countries to share the successful experience of Georgia.

 

The Parliament of Georgia joined the ASEAN PA in 2022 and regularly participates in the events convened within its framework.