სარტყელისა და გზის ინიციატივა - საქართველოს ეკონომიკური განვითარების პერსპექტივა

ანოტაცია

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched by the People’s Republic of China in 2013, has reshaped the geo-economic architecture of Eurasia by linking East Asian production networks with European markets through new infrastructure and trade corridors. Within this framework, Georgia has emerged as a pivotal transit hub, bridging the Black Sea and the Caspian region. The study examines the strategic interplay among China, the European Union, the United States, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, analyzing their distinct economic and political interests within the evolving Middle Corridor.

China’s motivation lies in securing a cost-efficient and time-saving land route to Europe that bypasses Russia and maritime chokepoints such as the Suez Canal. Through investments in Georgia’s logistics, railways, and port infrastructure, Beijing seeks both commercial gain and geopolitical diversification. The European Union, driven by the Global Gateway and Green Deal agendas, benefits from access to diversified energy routes, renewable electricity networks via the Black Sea cable, and enhanced trade connectivity that reduces dependency on Russian-controlled corridors. The United States approaches the region with a geopolitical and security-driven rationale—promoting alternative routes that constrain Chinese dominance, support regional stability, and expand American financial and technological influence.

For the South Caucasus states, especially Azerbaijan and Armenia, participation in the Middle Corridor brings potential financial and developmental benefits. Azerbaijan strengthens its position as an energy and logistics leader through transit revenues, infrastructure expansion, and deeper ties with both China and Europe. Armenia, seeking post-conflict recovery and diversification, views renewed connectivity as a path toward foreign investment and economic normalization, though balanced precariously between competing powers.

Georgia, situated at the core of this multidirectional competition, derives economic advantage through enhanced transit income, foreign investment, and integration into global supply chains. However, it must balance external partnerships with internal reforms to ensure long-term efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. Ultimately, the paper argues that the Middle Corridor’s success—and Georgia’s transformation into a Eurasian hub—will depend on harmonized regional cooperation, institutional credibility, and the efficient management of geopolitical rivalries for shared economic gain.