The Parliamentary Delegation, headed by the Vice-Speaker, Giorgi Kakhiani, and consisting of MP Anton Obolashvili, attends the 50th Plenary Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie (APF) in Paris; the central topic of the session is: The Role of Francophone in Global Crisis”.

The Delegation members participated in the sittings of the APF Committees on Political Affairs and Economy, and the Social and Environmental Affairs.

At the sitting of the Committee on Political Affairs and Economy, Giorgi Kakhiani addressed the delegates:

“Currently, Georgia confronts numerous challenges, both internal and external. Twenty percent of our territory, namely the Abkhazia and Tskhinvali regions, is occupied by Russia.

Over the past several years, despite regional and local challenges, Georgia has demonstrated remarkable and enduring economic growth, positioning itself as a successful model of reforms and rapid progress. Georgia has established itself as a reliable partner, providing a favourable business environment and supported by a robust institutional framework and a dependable economic policy.

Georgia’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. We are proud to maintain high recognition in international ratings in terms of business efficiency, anti-corruption measures, and a well-established democratic administration.

Our path towards sustainable development is predicated on our collective capacity to establish connections, collaborate, and implement innovative solutions. In this context, parliamentary diplomacy holds paramount importance” -  he asserted.

In his address to the Committee on Economic, Social, and Environmental Affairs, Anton Obolashvili emphasized Georgia's economic progress.

“In 2023, Georgia was honoured to host the 48th APF Plenary Session in Tbilisi, marking a historic moment for our nation. During the session, Georgia was elevated to the status of associate member of the Assembly, heralding a new chapter in our relations with the organisation.

Over the past few years, Georgia has emerged as one of the most dynamic countries in the Black Sea region. Despite the global upheavals, including the pandemic’s impact and regional geopolitical tensions, Georgia has managed to maintain macroeconomic stability, reduce inflation rates, and achieve substantial GDP growth.

Our nation has effectively managed external shocks and achieved remarkable double-digit economic growth in the 2021-2022 period, thereby sustaining its progressive trajectory. Notably, we have recorded 7.5% economic growth in 2023, projected 9.5% growth in 2024, and achieved an average GDP growth rate of 8.8% for the January-April period of 2025. These accomplishments are a testament to the consistent implementation of reforms, responsible administration, and sustainable development visions. These initiatives have fostered transparency, competitiveness, and investor confidence.

We maintain GDP growth, which is conditioned by the progress in tourism, trade, and investments. Our tourism sector flourishes, as we host millions of visitors annually from all over the world, which reflects our increasing global attractiveness”, - he noted.

According to him, Georgia is committed to contributing to the attainment of shared objectives and strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation with other APF member states.

“We appreciate our participation in the Francophonie and are confident that this Parliamentary Assembly will continue to serve as a vital platform for parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation in the face of global crises” -  he declared.

The President of the National Assembly of France, Yaël Braun-Pivet; the President of the Senate of France, Gérard Larcher; and the President of the APF, Hilarion Etong, delivered their addresses at the opening part of the session.

The plenary session was attended by over 400 delegates from up to 60 APF member states.