Georgia-Korea deal, pragmatic diplomacy: New pathways for constrained markets - The Korea Herald publishes an article with such a title.

"Since the outbreak of Russia`s war in Ukraine, Korean companies have faced constraints in direct engagement with the Russian and Ukrainian markets, while business conditions across the wider region have become increasingly complex and risk-sensitive.

Against this backdrop, Georgia could play a constructive and stabilizing role, according to Nikoloz Samkharadze, chairperson of the Georgian Parliament`s Foreign Relations Committee.

Speaking in an interview with The Korea Herald, Samkharadze said Georgia’s relative insulation from the conflict positions it as a practical platform for renewed regional engagement: “Sooner or later, all wars end, and we hope the war in Ukraine will end sooner rather than later. When that happens, opportunities will reopen. The Georgia-Korea partnership can help Korean companies gradually regain access to these markets, with Georgia serving as a starting point”.

Samkharadze said an early presence in Georgia would give Korean companies a competitive edge as regional conditions normalize: "If Korean companies already have a solid presence in Georgia, it will be much easier for them to reenter Ukraine, Russia and neighboring markets" he said, highlighting Georgia`s strong investment climate, ease of doing business and low tax burden.

Meanwhile, Samkharadze also acknowledged South Korea`s pragmatic diplomatic approach amid growing global uncertainty and Georgia`s apparent alignment with this strategy, emphasizing shared values between the two countries: "Georgia and the Republic of Korea are like-minded countries when it comes to international law, peaceful conflict resolution and pragmatic diplomacy. This shared outlook creates a strong foundation for cooperation".

He noted that recent institutional developments reflect the growing momentum in bilateral ties: "Pragmatism unites us and will lead to more active relations and new avenues for cooperation. The opening of a fully fledged Korean Embassy in (Georgia`s capital) Tbilisi, along with a Trade Promotion Agency, demonstrates Korea`s commitment. We would also welcome the opening of a KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) office in Tbilisi". He added that the signing of an air traffic agreement enabling direct flights would further boost exchanges between the two countries: "These developments create more opportunities for businesses and people from various backgrounds to benefit from closer relations".

Samkharadze said despite past challenges, growing exchanges and shared values will deepen Georgia-Korea cooperation, noting mutual support on security and international law: "Georgia has supported Korea`s policy of denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and has backed Korea at the United Nations on many occasions".

Samkharadze also shared "good news" on a Georgia-Korea comprehensive economic partnership agreement, saying a deal has been reached and legal teams are finalizing the text for signing this year. He also highlighted Georgia`s strategic role in the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, noting it as a key link between the East and West: "Our goal is to make this corridor not only the shortest route between Europe and Asia, but also the most convenient. Georgia is a vital link, and it would be in the interest of Korean companies to use Georgia`s transit potential for exports to Europe".

He added that Georgia`s free trade agreements with the EU, Turkey and former Soviet states make it an ideal gateway for investment, production and regional exports. Meanwhile, Samkharadze said Korea is a priority partner for Georgia, calling for stronger trade, youth exchanges and cooperation in education and culture. He expressed the hope that growing Korean tourism - over 31,000 visitors last year - could increase further with direct flights and niche offerings such as golf combined with cultural and wine tourism.