At the end of December 2022, within the framework of the ECIR platform, an online round table was held between representatives of the Armenian and Georgian public. Participants of the meeting exchanged views on the prospects for Armenian-Georgian relations.
The discussion touched a range of issues from improving current relationships to development prospects, with particular accent on the role of the public and public diplomacy in this process.
Within the framework of the current relations, it was noted that there are myths and stereotypes that exist in the public mind and are the result of the lack of widely available educational materials on Armenian-Georgian relations.
The absence of active contacts at the public level is also an omission, as a result of which today there is no agenda within which would be discussed the future of the region and the role of Armenian-Georgian relations in this matter would be discussed.
On the issue of development prospects, it was noted that there is a successful historical legacy in the Armenian-Georgian relations, which must be used for the development and deepening of relations. In particular, joint historical successes, cultural and spiritual heritage, the experience of cohabitation and co-creation for the benefit of both peoples.
During the discussions the participants also made a number of comments and suggestions.
In particular, the Georgian side noted the importance of developing a economy and economic relations between the countries. Creation of transparent mechanisms and guarantees for mutual investments.
Both sides focused on the development of tourism between Armenia and Georgia, as well as the creation of joint tourism projects for citizens of other countries. With the prospect of creating simplified border crossing procedures for citizens of both countries.
One of the important elements during the discussions was a proposal from the Georgian side to improve the transport infrastructure. With the perspective of creating a high-speed railway connection between the Republics.
From the Armenian side, it was proposed to form public groups in the field of business and new technologies for the exchange of experience, the creation of new ties and the further development of joint projects.
An important element in this process can be the Armenian Diaspora with its extensive network of business ties.
As a result of the discussions, both sides mentioned the importance of continuing the dialogue in a public format and developing institutions of public diplomacy in the interests of the Armenian-Georgian relations.
