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China in the South Caucasus and Tajikistan (09.02-15.02)

Weekly news / /

Georgia

Georgia and China Discuss Expanding Health Cooperation

February 9

On February 9, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to China, held a meeting with Li Mingzhu, Commissioner of the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, underscoring ongoing efforts to boost bilateral cooperation across strategic sectors.

The meeting, held in Beijing, focused on expanding cooperation in the health sector within the framework of the Georgia-China Strategic Partnership. The sides discussed ways to strengthen public health systems, emphasizing the use of modern technologies and the development of effective, results-oriented coordination mechanisms.

Paata Kalandadze and Li Mingzhu noted the recent progress in bilateral relations and underscored the importance of sustaining regular communication to advance current and future joint initiatives. The discussion also emphasized coordinated efforts to address public health challenges through the exchange of expertise and the application of innovative solutions.

Representatives from both sides expressed readiness to build on existing cooperation frameworks and further strengthen collaboration in health policy and system development.

Discussion to Advance Agricultural Trade Cooperation

February 10

On February 10, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia to China, Paata Kalandadze, held a strategic working meeting with senior officials of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People’s Republic of China (MARA), highlighting the continued strengthening of bilateral cooperation in agricultural trade.

The discussion with Wei Zhenglin, Director General of the MARA International Cooperation Department, centered on the steady growth of Georgian agricultural exports to China throughout 2025, a development both sides linked to the effective implementation of the bilateral Free Trade Agreement.

During the talks, Chinese officials praised the quality of Georgian wine, hazelnuts, and other niche agricultural products, highlighting how these goods are increasingly recognized by buyers in China. Both delegations noted that this growing demand reflects expanding trade links and improved market access between the two countries.

Looking ahead, participants expressed optimism that 2026 will usher in a new chapter of cooperation in the agricultural sector, with commitments to promote closer communication and coordination between the Georgian Embassy and MARA.

The meeting reflects a broader effort by Georgian diplomatic and trade representatives to strengthen economic ties with China across key export sectors, amid wider government efforts to diversify international markets for domestic producers.

A business meeting was held between Georgian and Chinese companies

February 11

On February 11, 2026, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia, Paata Kalandadze, participated in the event ’’High-Level Business Dialogue with Ambassadors’’. The event was organized by Beijing United Information Technology.

The meeting provided a platform for strengthening business contacts and exploring new opportunities for cooperation between Georgian and Chinese companies, including prospects in digital commerce and emerging technologies. Participants discussed ways to expand bilateral trade and enhance economic connectivity within the broader framework of the Georgia-China strategic partnership.

In his speech, the Georgian Ambassador spoke about the free trade agreement between the two countries, outstanding Georgian products, and the business environment in Georgia. He highlighted the main features that make Georgia an attractive place for investment.

Beijing United Information Technology was founded in 2002 and is a leading commercial information service platform.

Georgian Ambassador Meets with Huawei’s Regional Vice President for Central Asia

February 13

On February 13, 2026, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia, Paata Kalandadze, held a meeting with Huawei’s Regional Vice President for Central Asia, Xu Hai.

The parties reviewed the projects implemented in cooperation with the company, discussed future plans, and agreed to continue close communication in this regard.

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan President Signals Deepening of Strategic Ties with China

February 16

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has reaffirmed the strengthening of relations with China, expressing confidence that bilateral cooperation will continue to expand through joint efforts, according to official statements released on the occasion of the Chinese Spring Festival.

In a congratulatory message dated February 6, and addressed to Chinese President Xi Jinping, Aliyev emphasized the steady development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, describing it as grounded in strong political dialogue and mutual understanding.

Aliyev noted that the long-standing friendly relations and ’’fruitful cooperation’’ between Azerbaijan and China are expected to grow further in line with the interests of both nations. He stressed that ongoing engagement between the governments creates favorable conditions for the rapid strengthening of bilateral ties.

The Azerbaijani leader’s message marked the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as Chunjie, which he described as a symbol of peace, harmony, renewal, and unity. He conveyed wishes for prosperity and well-being to the Chinese people.

Aliyev also extended personal congratulations to Xi Jinping, wishing him success in his official duties and expressing hopes for lasting peace and prosperity for China.

Armenia

The Prime Minister of Congratulates Xi Jinping and Li Qiang on Chinese New Year

February 16

Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan has sent congratulatory messages to Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on the occasion of the Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival.

According to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office, Pashinyan extended warm wishes to the leadership and people of China, highlighting the cultural and symbolic significance of the holiday.

In his message to President Xi, Pashinyan conveyed congratulations on behalf of the Armenian people and expressed hope that the traditional festival would bring health, success, and joy to Chinese families. He described the Spring Festival as a widely celebrated family holiday and wished prosperity and peace to the ’’friendly people of China’’.

The Prime Minister of Armenia noted that relations between Armenia and China are based on long-standing friendly ties and mutual trust. He reaffirmed Yerevan’s readiness to deepen bilateral cooperation and stated that the further development of relations would add new initiatives to the framework of the strategic partnership.

Finally, Pashinyan expressed hope that bilateral cooperation would continue to yield new results in the future.

Tajikistan

Tajik President Meets AIIB Chief to Discuss Infrastructure and Energy Projects

February 14

On February 14, President Emomali Rahmon held talks with the President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Zou Jiayi, in Dushanbe, focusing on ongoing infrastructure projects and prospects for expanded financial cooperation.

Rahmon congratulated Zou on her recent appointment and welcomed her first official visit to Tajikistan. The discussions centered on the current state of cooperation between Tajikistan and the Beijing-based lender, with the president highlighting AIIB’s role in supporting the country’s socio-economic development priorities.

According to the Tajik presidency, AIIB remains one of Tajikistan’s key development partners, particularly in the modernization of infrastructure and the advancement of sustainable development goals, including the transition toward a green economy.

Special attention was given to major energy initiatives, notably the construction of the Rogun Dam and the continued rehabilitation of the Nurek Dam. Both projects are central to Tajikistan’s long-term energy strategy and export ambitions.

The sides also discussed potential cooperation in transport and urban infrastructure, water resource management, climate adaptation, digitalization, and energy efficiency.

Both parties emphasized the importance of securing long-term financing, improving project implementation mechanisms, and strengthening institutional capacity. They reaffirmed their commitment to deepening mutually beneficial cooperation and expressed confidence that the outcomes of the meeting would further advance strategic partnership ties between Tajikistan and AIIB.

China in the South Caucasus and Tajikistan (09.02-15.02) Read More »

The CIA addresses Chinese military officers in a new video

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

On February 12, the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) released a new video which, according to CNN, is directly aimed at individuals working within China’s military structures.

The Chinese-language video tells the story of a fictional mid-level military officer who critically assesses the country’s military-political environment, corruption, and hierarchical governance, and finds himself facing the decision of whether to establish contact with the CIA.

Explaining the character’s choice, a CIA official told CNN: “He makes the difficult decision to stay true to his values and forge a better path for his family by contacting the CIA.”

In the same video, the CIA emphasizes that individuals with relevant information or professional access to military and security sectors should use the secure and anonymous communication channels created by the agency, allowing contact to be made safely and without revealing their identity.

CNN notes that while the video does not contain explicit calls to action, it clearly reflects US intelligence interest in obtaining information from China’s military and security structures.

The CIA stresses that such information campaigns are part of its global intelligence strategy. In response, Chinese official bodies have not issued public comments. According to South China Morning Post, these actions will probably be evaluated as interference in internal affairs and steps directed against national security.

According to media assessments, the timing of the initiative is linked to ongoing changes in China and increased control over the military elite, once again highlighting the long-standing and high-intensity tensions between the United States and China in the security and intelligence spheres.

Author: Mariam Simsive

The CIA addresses Chinese military officers in a new video Read More »

Behind the Barrels: Iranian Oil and Political Ties in Georgia

New, Research / /

Civic IDEA is pleased to share its Report #2 on Iran, prepared within the framework of our ongoing monitoring of Georgia’s economic and political linkages related to Iran.

Key findings from the report include:

72 companies registered in Georgia imported Iranian oil and petroleum products in 2022–2025, based on official data and documents.

  • 15 companies are related to citizens of third countries (Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Armenia).
  • 10 companies are related to Iranian citizens, and 2 companies have Iranian citizens among their partners as managers/shareholders.
  • 8 companies are linked to donors of the Georgian Dream party; 3 of these are winners of state tenders.
  • 8 companies have contracts with various state agencies. Managers/shareholders of 3 companies are linked to other entities that have won state contracts.
  • 5 companies are indirectly related to Georgian Dream donors — Aisi LLC, Ihlas LLC, Bakhula Motors LLC, Baza-22 LLC, Sulfeco LLC — as member organizations of the NNLE Waste Management Business Association. The association is headed by Bakur Khundadze, a donor to Georgian Dream.
  • 4 companies are indirectly connected to public/political officials and members of the Georgian Parliament, including a former Georgian Dream MP.

Read the full report:

Behind the Barrels: Iranian Oil and Political Ties in Georgia Read More »

China Highlights Strategic Importance of Critical Minerals

Newswire / /

On February 10, Chinese Premier Li Qiang inspected rare earth producers and related research facilities in Jiangxi province.

The visit took place as part of traditional activities ahead of the Lunar New Year, however, according to China Daily, it also reflects Beijing’s growing focus on strategic industrial development. Rare earth elements are critical to high-tech industries, and China’s dominance in their processing gives it a significant strategic advantage in competition with the United States.

The Chinese premier also commented on the issue, stating:

“The role of rare earths in advancing high-end manufacturing and promoting green, low-carbon transformation is becoming increasingly prominent,” Li Qiang said.

According to Reuters, the issue gained particular relevance after China tightened controls on rare earth exports from April 2025 and shifted to an individual licensing regime, which requires prior approval and authorization by the state for each export.

This move prolonged supply procedures and reduced their efficiency, resulting in some companies being unable to fully meet contractual obligations, with a significant impact on the functioning of global supply chains.

At the same time, the geopolitical situation is also changing in Washington. Last week, U.S. Vice President JD Vance presented an initiative aimed at coordinating allied countries’ extraction, processing, and trade of critical minerals. The initiative also envisions the formation of a preferential trade bloc, under which member states would have priority access to each other’s markets.

The plan aims to reduce dependence on Chinese resources. However, it remains at a conceptual stage, as the participating countries, institutional format, and relevant legal and economic mechanisms have yet to be defined.

Author: Mariam Simsive

China Highlights Strategic Importance of Critical Minerals Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Uzbekistan (February 2-8)

Weekly news / /

Georgia

Meeting of the Ambassador of Georgia with the Head of North Star Sinogold

February 3

On February 3, the Ambassador of Georgia to the People’s Republic of China, Paata Kalandadze, held a meeting with the General Manager of North Star Sinogold, Meng Haijun.

During the meeting, the parties discussed prospects for deepening Georgia-China cooperation in the development of international supply chains and port logistics. They also expressed readiness to maintain close communication on these issues.

North Star Sinogold is a state-owned company that organizes international exhibitions and conferences in the fields of logistics, trade, and supply chain development.

Source: Embassy of Georgia to the People`s Republic of China

Interest of Chinese Tourists in Medical Services Is Growing

February 5

According to Bm.ge, there is a growing interest among Chinese tourists in reproductive medical services in Georgia. This was noted by Tatia Mamrikishvili, Head of the Sector at Galt & Taggart’s Research Department.

Mamrikishvili stated that in recent periods, some visitors arriving from China choose Georgia not only for tourism purposes but also to receive medical services, including reproductive and fertility treatments. Experts say this trend contributes to the development of a new segment of medical tourism in the country.

The statement also noted that the activation of Asian markets, particularly China, significantly supports the diversification of the tourism sector, while modern medical infrastructure and relatively affordable services give Georgia a competitive advantage in this field.

Source: bm.ge

Azerbaijan

Baku Supports Beijing’s Position on the China-Taiwan Issue

February 4

Azerbaijan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov spoke about relations between China and Azerbaijan in an interview published on February 4 by the Chinese media outlet Global Times.

According to the minister, the further development of the strategic partnership with China remains a fundamental component of Azerbaijan’s foreign policy.

In the interview, Bayramov also addressed the China-Taiwan issue, stating that Azerbaijan unequivocally supports the ,,One China’’ principle.

He noted that Azerbaijan’s position on the Taiwan issue is clear, consistent, and firmly rooted in the principles of international law.

,,Azerbaijan does not recognize the independence of Taiwan. We were one of the first countries to condemn the so-called elections held in Taiwan in January 2024,” Bayramov said.

According to the minister, any attempts aimed at changing the status quo, including provocative actions and unilateral foreign policy moves, increase the risk of regional tensions and conflict and undermine stability in international relations.

Bayramov added that Azerbaijan’s support for China on the Taiwan issue reflects the country’s commitment to the principles of state sovereignty and territorial integrity, which remain one of the foundations of Baku’s foreign policy.

The minister also noted that Azerbaijan views its relations with China in a long-term and strategic context. He said cooperation between the two countries is based on a high level of political trust and stable dialogue between their leaders. These statements are linked to Bayramov’s meeting held in Beijing on January 28-29 with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

According to the minister, the Baku-Beijing partnership is of particular importance in the fields of transport and logistics, while cultural, educational, and tourism exchanges are also emphasized, adding further depth to bilateral relations.

Source: Global Times

Armenia

Chinese Ambassador Speaks on Deepening Armenian-Chinese Cooperation

February 6

The Chinese Ambassador to Armenia, Li Xinwei, delivered remarks on February 6 at an official reception held at the Chinese Embassy in Yerevan to mark the Chinese New Year, the Spring Festival.

In his speech, the Ambassador spoke about the deepening of Armenian-Chinese cooperation, noting that relations between the two countries have entered a “new stage of development.”

,,Over the past year, Armenia and China have significantly expanded cooperation in practical areas,’’ he said, adding that bilateral relations are no longer limited to diplomatic contacts but also encompass infrastructure, business, and social projects.

Li Xinwei highlighted the visit of Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to China last year, stating that the meeting between the Prime Minister and Chinese President Xi Jinping, held on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, resulted in the announcement of a strategic partnership between Armenia and China.

The Ambassador also referred to joint infrastructure and energy projects, including the North-South highway, the development of solar power plants, and the construction of a new pavilion for Public Television.

According to him, the frequency of flights on the Urumqi-Yerevan route has increased, while the number of tourists arriving in Armenia from China has risen by around 40 percent.

The event concluded with a cultural program dedicated to the Chinese New Year.

Source: Armenpress.am

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan and China Agree on the Modernization of the Shakhrikhan Hydropower Cascade

February 5

Uzbekistan and China have signed agreements on the modernization of the Shakhrikhan hydropower plant cascade. The documents were signed on 5 February.

Under the agreements, the Uzbek state-owned company Uzbekhydroenergo and the Chinese engineering firm Sinohydro will carry out reconstruction and technical upgrades of the facilities. The project will be implemented on a comprehensive basis, encompassing design, construction, equipment supply, and commissioning.

Upon completion of the project, the combined capacity of the two reconstructed power stations will increase, while annual electricity generation will be sufficient to supply more than 13,000 households.

The modernization is expected to ensure annual savings of approximately 11 million cubic meters of natural gas and 27.5 thousand tons of coal, and is aimed at improving energy efficiency and increasing the production of environmentally friendly energy.

According to assessments by Uzbek official bodies, the initiative will contribute to strengthening the country’s energy security and further deepen Uzbekistan-China cooperation in strategic sectors, including energy and infrastructure development.

Source: Yuz.uz

China in the South Caucasus and Uzbekistan (February 2-8) Read More »

“2026: A New Chapter for Europe” – Tinatin Khidasheli Speaks at European Parliament Panel

New / /

📍 European Parliament, Brussels

Tinatin Khidasheli, Head of Civic IDEA, participated in the high-level European forum “2026: A New Chapter for Europe” at the European Parliament in Brussels.

Tinatin spoke on the expert panel “Democratic Resilience – Common Challenges on the Path to EU Integration.” The panel examined how weakened information integrity, fragile institutions, and elections that fall short of genuine competition can erode democratic resilience in the Western Balkans. Drawing lessons from comparable experiences beyond the region, the discussion explored concrete ways the EU and its partners can support democratic standards, bolster independent media, and reinforce institutions along the path toward EU integration.

The forum featured a keynote speech by Commissioner Michael McGrath and brought together policymakers, civil society leaders, and experts to discuss actionable strategies for strengthening democracy in Europe and its neighboring regions.

“2026: A New Chapter for Europe” – Tinatin Khidasheli Speaks at European Parliament Panel Read More »

China in the South Caucasus and Tajikistan (26.01-01.02)

Weekly news / /

Georgia

Meeting of the Ambassador of Georgia held a at the General Administration of Customs of China

January 28

On January 28, 2026, Georgia’s Ambassador to China, Paata Kalandadze, held a working meeting with Yu Xiantao, Deputy Director-General of the International Department of the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC).

The talks focused on the current dynamics of Georgia-China trade relations, with particular attention to the practical implementation of the updated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed in November 2025. Ambassador Kalandadze emphasized that the revised FTA provides a strong basis for expanding Georgian exports to the Chinese market and reducing trade barriers.

The sides also discussed the digital transformation of customs procedures, measures to increase cargo turnover efficiency, and mechanisms to further simplify certification and customs clearance for Georgian export goods.

The meeting aimed to strengthen economic ties within the framework of the two countries’ strategic partnership and to improve customs administration. The parties agreed to maintain close cooperation going forward.

Source: Embassy of Georgia to the People’s Republic of China

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan and China Foreign Ministers Hold Talks in Beijing

January 28

On January 28, the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and China held expanded-format talks in Beijing to discuss strengthening bilateral relations.

Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi reviewed the current state and future prospects of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Baku and Beijing. The talks underscored the importance of ongoing political dialogue and frequent contacts between the two nations’ diplomatic services.

During the discussions, the ministers focused on deepening economic and trade cooperation, expanding investment opportunities, enhancing transport links, and boosting collaboration in energy, innovation, and digital development. They also exchanged views on key regional and international issues, highlighting the role of cooperation within multilateral frameworks.

In a social media post following the meeting, Bayramov stated that Azerbaijan and China are committed to further deepening their strategic partnership, while both sides expressed confidence that the visit and talks would strengthen bilateral relations and expand practical cooperation across a wide range of areas.

Source: Report.az

Jeyhun Bayramov visits Museum of Chinese Communist Party

January 28

On January 28, Azerbaijan’s Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov visited the Museum of the Communist Party of China during his official visit to the People’s Republic of China.

According to the ministry, the museum offers valuable information on the historical periods and governance experiences that have shaped China’s modern development. During the visit, Bayramov signed the museum’s guest book and emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation under the comprehensive strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China.

In a post on the social network X, Bayramov described the visit as a “great honor,” noting that the museum vividly reflects the rich history, vision and achievements of the Chinese people and offers insights into China’s path of development and national rejuvenation. “Thank you for the excellent tour!” he wrote.

The Museum of the Communist Party of China, located in Beijing’s Chaoyang District, showcases the history of the Chinese Communist Party and its leadership’s role in shaping the country’s political and social trajectory.

Source: Report.az

Azerbaijan’s state oil company SOCAR and a Chinese company discuss creating joint ventures

January 28

Azerbaijan’s state oil company SOCAR and the Chinese company CITIC Construction Co., Ltd. are discussing opportunities to implement energy infrastructure and petrochemical projects, including the creation of joint ventures.

According to Report, the issues were discussed during a meeting between SOCAR President Rovshan Najaf and CITIC Construction Chairman Yang Jianqiang.

The parties reviewed the experience of cooperation between SOCAR and Chinese companies and also discussed SOCAR’s ongoing projects and the company’s strategic goals both in Azerbaijan and abroad.

At the end of the meeting, the parties signed an agreement aimed at exploring potential areas of cooperation.

Source: Report.az

Baku Metro discusses differentiated tariff policy with Chinese company

January 30

On January 30, 2026, a meeting was held in Hong Kong between Baku Metro and the Chinese company Octopus Holdings Limited, focusing on the possible introduction of a differentiated tariff policy in public transport.

The Baku delegation was led by Vusal Aslanov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Baku Metropolitan. During the meeting, he and representatives of Octopus, including Chief Executive Officer Tim Ying and Head of Transportation Business Nora Tang, discussed opportunities to modernize fare structures and introduce advanced payment technologies.

The parties reviewed international practices in tariff policy, including tiered pricing models, as well as digital payment systems aimed at simplifying travel for passengers and strengthening integration within the city’s transport network.

Octopus, whose contactless payment system is widely used in cities such as Hong Kong, Amsterdam, and Singapore, shared its experience with Baku in the field of “smart payment” platforms, including mobile payments and open-system integration.

At this stage, no final decision has been made regarding the implementation of a differentiated fare system in Baku. However, the discussions indicate Baku Metro’s interest in exploring innovative and more equitable pricing mechanisms for passengers.

Source: Report.az

Armenia

Second Khachaturian International Youth Competition Launches in Beijing

January 26

On January 26, a press conference dedicated to the Second Khachaturian International Youth Competition was held at the China National Opera House in Beijing, where it was announced that the competition will take place in Beijing in November 2026.

The event was attended by Martin Tovmasyan, Chairman of the Khachaturian Cultural Foundation; Liu Yunzhi, President and Artistic Director of the China National Opera House; Misak Balayan, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia to China; and representatives of the Jingshe International Cultural and Educational Group.

Since 2023, the Khachaturian International Competition in China has been organized by the Khachaturian Cultural Foundation in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia and partner organizations.

The 2026 competition will be held in an expanded format, featuring preliminary rounds in various regions worldwide, online voting, and an Audience Award. The final stage will take place in November in Beijing, with the participation of the China National Opera House Orchestra and the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sergey Smbatyan.

Source: Embassy of Armenia to China

Armenian Armed Forces Day Commemorated in Beijing

January 30

On January 30, the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in China hosted an official reception in Beijing to mark the 34th anniversary of the formation of the Armenian Armed Forces, the embassy announced.

The event brought together military attachés and representatives from several countries accredited in Beijing, along with Armenian citizens living and studying in China.

As the Guest of Honor, PLA General Liu Zhongbin, head of the International Institute of Defense Studies at the National Defense University, attended the reception from the Chinese side.

At the opening, Armenia’s military attaché to China, Georgi Nalbandyan, highlighted the importance of the day and underscored the role of the Armenian Armed Forces in establishing and strengthening Armenian statehood.

In his welcoming remarks, Armenian Ambassador to China Vahe Gevorgyan stressed Armenia’s efforts toward regional peace and security, including the normalization of relations with neighboring countries and the diversification of ties with major international partners. He also highlighted the development of Armenia-China relations into a strategic partnership and the importance of deepening cooperation across all areas.

Source: Embassy of Armenia to China

Tajikistan

Tajikistan Considers Expanding Flights to China

January 26

Tajikistan is considering the purchase of aircraft produced by China’s Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC) and the expansion of direct flights to additional Chinese cities, according to discussions held on January 26.

The talks took place between the Director of Tajikistan’s Civil Aviation Agency and representatives of COMAC, as well as Chengdu Airlines. The meeting focused on prospects for aviation cooperation, including fleet renewal and the launch of new air routes between Tajikistan and China.

Officials said the initiative aims to strengthen bilateral ties and support the development of civil aviation in both countries. Currently, Chengdu Airlines operates a Khujand-Kashgar-Khujand route once a week. The airline plans to expand services to other cities in China as part of broader cooperation with Tajik authorities.

The discussions reflect Tajikistan’s interest in diversifying its aviation partnerships and improving regional connectivity.

Source: Khovar.tj

China in the South Caucasus and Tajikistan (26.01-01.02) Read More »

“Western funds benefit Chinese state companies and Georgia’s authoritarian regime” – Talk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze

New / /
Topics Discussed:
 
🟣  How Western Funds Are Benefiting Chinese State Companies and the Authoritarian Regime in Georgia
 
🟣 Why Western Money Still Flows to Georgia Despite Sanctions
 
🟣 Triangle of Money: IFIs, Corrupt Georgian Government, and Sanctioned Chinese Companies
 
🟣  How to Prevent Funding of Dictatorship
 
🟣  Status of Anaklia Deep Sea Port, Decreased U.S. Attention to Georgia, and Lost Opportunities
—
Check out the podcast “Talk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze”

“Western funds benefit Chinese state companies and Georgia’s authoritarian regime” – Talk Georgia with Giorgi Rukhadze Read More »

“The Georgian Dream” Party Legalizes Dictatorship in Georgia

New / /

“For any person, any person.”
“For any activity carried out or to be carried out with the belief or intention of exerting some influence.”

The measures announced by the Georgian Dream government yesterday go beyond a crackdown and put participation in public life an obsolete danger.

With a single legislative package, the ruling party moved to criminalize intent, association, expertise, and thought itself, placing virtually all civic, political, and intellectual life under prior state permission. The amendments unveiled on January 28 mark a decisive transition from competitive authoritarianism to an openly coercive system where the state claims the right to pre-approve who may think, organize, fund, speak, or belong.

The changes center on a significantly broadened definition of a “grant.” Under the new provisions, any transfer of funds or resources between individuals may be considered a criminal act if authorities believe it could influence government, institutions, policy, or any segment of society. This approach shifts from regulation to preemptive criminalization, targeting not only actions but also beliefs, intentions, and potential future outcomes.

The scope is deliberately boundless. Funding is criminalized not only when it is political, but when it is interpreted as political. Technical assistance, expertise, knowledge-sharing, professional services, or hiring Georgian experts by foreign entities are all reclassified as suspect “grants,” requiring government approval. Even foreign organizations funding their own Georgian branches are brought under this regime. Noncompliance carries prison sentences of up to six years; in cases framed as “money laundering related to political issues,” up to twelve.

At the same time, the amendments undermine political pluralism. Party leaders may face criminal prosecution for foreign funding violations. Individuals employed by organizations receiving more than 20% foreign funding are barred from party membership for eight years, effectively excluding many civil society professionals, researchers, journalists, and activists from political participation. 

The amendments also criminalize so-called “external lobbying.” Any exchange of resources connected, directly or indirectly, to advocacy on Georgia-related political issues abroad becomes a criminal offense. This effectively prohibits international advocacy, solidarity, and representation, legally isolating the country.

Businesses are also affected. Entrepreneurs who engage in public political activity unrelated to their core business may face significant fines, indicating that economic participation is now contingent on political neutrality.

Collectively, these measures do not seek to address abuses or enhance transparency. Instead, they are designed to suppress independent activity. Following three years of legal actions against media, NGOs, and the opposition, the government appears to be moving from managing dissent to eliminating the conditions necessary for dissent.

This legislation appears intended to instill fear rather than provide effective governance. It adopts elements of Russian-style repression and extends them through vague provisions, granting authorities broad discretionary power. When intent is criminalized and permission is required, freedom is no longer a guaranteed right but a conditional privilege. 

Yet the logic driving these laws betrays their failure. If free thought could be eliminated, it would not require prison terms. If civic commitment could be extinguished, it would not require criminal codes. Love of freedom does not disappear by statute. Neither does dedication to one’s country, nor the resolve to defend one’s beliefs.

As of today (January 29), the official text of the legislation has not yet been made public; the analysis above is based on the government’s announcement.

“The Georgian Dream” Party Legalizes Dictatorship in Georgia Read More »

Keir Starmer Travels to China for Official Visit

Newswire, ერთი ახალი ამბავი / /

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will officially visit the People’s Republic of China from January 28 to 31. On Thursday, he is scheduled to meet President Xi Jinping.

Accompanying Sir Keir Starmer on the visit are Secretary of State for Business and Trade Peter Kyle and Economic Secretary to the Treasury Lucy Rigby. Around 50 British business and cultural leaders will also take part in the delegation.

The UK government has described the visit as one of the most significant steps in restoring relations with China. Starmer said that the UK’s approach to China had been inconsistent over the years, but added that, “despite the challenges, a strategic relationship with China is in the national interest.”

On the issue, the Beijing Ministry of Commerce stated that China places great importance on economic and trade cooperation with the United Kingdom and is ready to use this visit to strengthen political trust and deepen practical collaboration. According to a deputy minister, more than 100 companies from China and the UK have expressed interest in cooperation.

The visit is expected to cover issues such as human rights, the situation in Hong Kong, Xinjiang, the war in Ukraine, and China’s role in international security. Special attention will also be paid to the participation of Chinese companies in Britain’s critical infrastructure.

It should be noted that Sir Keir Starmer previously met President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024, but this will be the first official visit to China by a British prime minister since 2018.

Author: Mariam Simsive

Keir Starmer Travels to China for Official Visit Read More »

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