The Washington Times Weighs on Geographical and Political Significance of Georgia

The Washington Times issued an analytic article “Georgia at a crossroads” which states that the Georgian nation and populace face continued Russian threats and antagonism while the country solidifies its Western pivot embracing pro-growth economic policies and strengthening its democratic institutions.

“Russian forces and their proxies continue to occupy 20% of Georgia’s territory. Russian tourism accounts for almost 8% of Georgian GDP, and Russia is Georgia’s second-largest source of remittances” reads the article.

"Georgian actors seeking to obstruct the functioning of the nation’s democratic institutions and promote instability provide Russia an opportunity for more meddling.

"It is important that these political actors heed the State Department’s call for all parties to return to the political process, and avoid violent demonstrations."

The article underscores what Georgia means to the West, as it links the Caspian, Aegean and Mediterranean basins. “Georgia’s multiple Black Sea ports serve as vital transport links between Eurasia and the Atlantic. Georgia sits at the nexus of energy flows from the Caspian Sea region to the West.” As a result of its geographical position at the center of the New Silk Road and East-West trading corridors, Georgia has emerged as a pivotal point of great power competition.

By B.Alexishvili