Georgian parliament speaker calls for stronger regional cooperation at PAM summit

Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili has called for deeper regional cooperation and stronger parliamentary diplomacy amid growing global instability, during an address at the first summit of speakers and presidents of parliaments from member and partner states of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean.

Papuashvili said Georgia’s historical ties with the Mediterranean region date back thousands of years and stressed that the country continues to build on those links following the restoration of its independence 35 years ago.

Speaking at the summit, the parliament speaker described the current international system as fragmented and marked by geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and shifting security dynamics.

“We are witnessing the collapse of the rules-based international order,” Papuashvili said, warning that the process undermines the foundations of stability, cooperation and trust between states.

Addressing participants in his capacity as president of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation, Papuashvili said the Black Sea region had become “the epicentre of global instability” due to the continuing Russia-Ukraine war.

He argued that while global organisations often struggle to deliver results, regional formats have a unique opportunity to foster dialogue and practical cooperation.

“Regional organisations create a framework through which neighbouring countries can engage in dialogue, discuss shared challenges and reach practical solutions,” he said.

Papuashvili highlighted connectivity, trade routes and energy security as key priorities for regional cooperation. He said the development of strategic transit corridors, including the Middle Corridor linking Europe and Asia, is reshaping trade and economic relations while reducing vulnerabilities in global supply chains.

According to the parliament speaker, energy diversification and cooperation on alternative energy infrastructure are essential for ensuring long-term resilience and stability, particularly for Europe.

Papuashvili also stressed the importance of trust and open dialogue between lawmakers, even when political positions differ.

“To strengthen resilience, trust is of decisive importance,” he said. “As parliamentarians, we must continue open dialogue even when our views differ.”

The Georgian parliament speaker additionally pointed to what he described as a positive regional trend in the South Caucasus, saying Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan were demonstrating “wisdom and vision for the future” by creating hope for peace, cooperation and development.

He reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation between the Black Sea, Mediterranean and Gulf regions through platforms such as PABSEC and PAM.