We are a country that has gone through four different wars over the past 35 years. Therefore, our country understands the value of peace better than anyone. We are doing everything we can to strengthen peace in our country, and - which is very important - we are doing quite well in this regard, said the Prime Minister of Georgia in his keynote speech delivered at the Regional Forum on Sustainable Development in Tbilisi.

“This is a very important event for our country and we are pleased to host high-ranking guests at this forum for the fourteenth time. The theme of this year’s conference is also of utmost importance - it is the role of peace in ensuring sustainable socio-economic development, both in individual countries and globally. We are a country that has gone through four different wars over the past 35 years. Therefore, our country understands the value of peace better than anyone. We are doing everything we can to strengthen peace in our country, and - which is very important - we are doing quite well in this regard. Despite the significant pressure placed on our country over the past few years, we have managed to preserve peace in Georgia.

Not only are we maintaining peace within the country, but we are also managing to support peace in the region around us, which is crucial for the development of our country. There are various types of challenges in our broader region, and in this context, Georgia has always played a positive role over the years in promoting peace and, consequently, in ensuring sustainable socio-economic development in the region. Today’s world is full of major challenges, especially when it comes to peace. We are witnessing a military conflict and a large-scale war in our broader region. Sadly, there are multiple wars taking place around us, and in such circumstances, it is vital to speak about the importance of peace.

The role of superpowers is profoundly significant when we talk about strengthening peace globally. At today’s conference, the Ambassador of China to Georgia will deliver a speech and I believe China is exactly the kind of superpower that everyone should look up to. Over the past 45 years, China has not participated in any war and has been fully focused on progress, modernization and economic development - and I believe the results speak for themselves. We should especially appreciate the role of this country not only in the region but also globally in promoting greater peace.

The messages coming from the new US President in this regard are very encouraging, as they emphasize the importance of peace. I hope that under the new administration - under President Trump’s administration - peace will be further promoted on a global scale. We are ready to cooperate with all states, including all superpowers, that are focused on peace, economic development and ensuring greater well-being for their people”, - said Irakli Kobakhidze.