Azerbaijan’s Speaker of Parliament, Sahiba Gafarova, arrived in Tbilisi on March 10 for an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties with Georgia. Leading a high-ranking delegation from the Milli Majlis, Gafarova is expected to engage in discussions with top Georgian officials to enhance diplomatic, economic, and parliamentary cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
Strengthening Diplomatic Relations
Gafarova’s visit underscores the deepening relationship between Azerbaijan and Georgia, two strategic partners in the South Caucasus. The two countries have long maintained close ties, particularly in trade, energy, and infrastructure development. With both nations playing key roles in regional projects like the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and the Southern Gas Corridor, the visit signals further cooperation on economic and security matters.
This visit is part of Azerbaijan’s broader diplomatic efforts to reinforce regional stability and connectivity. Georgia remains a crucial partner for Azerbaijan in the transit of oil and gas to European markets, making discussions on energy cooperation a likely focal point during Gafarova’s meetings.
Key Meetings on the Agenda
During her visit, Speaker Gafarova is scheduled to meet with high-level Georgian officials, including:
- Shalva Papuashvili, Speaker of the Georgian Parliament – Expected to discuss parliamentary diplomacy and legislative collaboration.
- Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze – Likely to focus on economic partnerships and regional security.
- President Salome Zourabichvili – A meeting that may touch upon broader bilateral and geopolitical issues.
Gafarova’s engagements will likely cover topics such as trade expansion, border security, and infrastructure projects that benefit both nations. Parliamentary exchanges between the Milli Majlis and the Georgian Parliament are also expected to be on the agenda, strengthening legislative cooperation.
A Focus on Regional Connectivity
The South Caucasus remains a region of strategic importance, with Azerbaijan and Georgia playing pivotal roles in transportation and energy corridors. As part of her visit, Gafarova is expected to emphasize Azerbaijan’s commitment to:
- Enhancing trade routes between the two countries
- Strengthening cooperation on infrastructure projects
- Expanding cultural and educational exchanges between Azerbaijan and Georgia
The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway are two major projects that have solidified the economic partnership between the nations. With global trade shifts impacting regional economies, both sides are likely to explore ways to modernize and optimize these routes for future sustainability.
Political and Economic Implications
Gafarova’s visit comes at a crucial time, as both countries navigate regional challenges and geopolitical dynamics. Azerbaijan and Georgia have consistently supported each other in international forums, particularly in relation to sovereignty and territorial integrity. The discussions in Tbilisi could further align the countries on key foreign policy issues, including their relations with the European Union and broader Eurasian partnerships.
Economic cooperation will also be in focus, with trade between the two nations expected to increase in 2025. In 2024, Azerbaijan was among Georgia’s top trade partners, and discussions may include expanding joint economic initiatives in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and digital technology.
