Tbilisi Silk Road Forum 2025: A Strategic Analysis of China’s Growing Influence
October 22/23The Fifth International Silk Road Forum was held in Tbilisi on October 22-23, 2025. The event, attended by delegates from over 70 countries, including representatives from the UN, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and other major international organizations, once again confirmed its evolution into a critical instrument for regional and global cooperation.
The main slogan of this year’s forum was “Invest in Connectivity – Grow in Stability.” The emphasis on “stability” is a significant political strategy, as the sanctions imposed on Russia in 2022 have substantially altered transport configurations in Europe and Eurasia. This has led to an increase in Georgia’s role in trans-Eurasian trade. The forum discussed trends in global trade, transport, digital technologies, and investments.
The forum is the culmination of targeted bilateral connections achieved over a decade. Since 2015, when the first forum was held, organized by the governments of Georgia and China, Georgia has strategically positioned itself towards China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Georgia was one of the first countries to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation with the BRI.
China’s interest in strengthening regional connections was evident. The forum was attended by the Vice President of the Asian Development Bank, Yingming Yang, a former high-ranking official of the Chinese Ministry of Finance, who opened the panel on the economic prospects of the Middle Corridor.
While the Tbilisi Silk Road Forum successfully establishes Georgia as a central player, it increases its dependence on China. Experts note that the chosen strategic path, defined by the 2023 strategic partnership and the Anaklia project, indicates that in order to achieve short-term financial benefits, Georgia is somewhat neglecting long-term Euro-Atlantic security priorities. Thus, Georgia’s integration into the BRI encompasses both economic opportunities and a risky geopolitical environment.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia met with the Ambassador of China, Zhou Qian
October 24On October 24, 2025, Georgian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maka Bochorishvili met with Zhou Qian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Georgia. During the meeting, the parties discussed bilateral cooperation between Georgia and China. Special attention was given to:
- The importance of visa-free travel and direct flights, which facilitates people-to-people and business contacts.
- Georgia’s participation in the 8th China International Import Expo, scheduled to take place in Shanghai from November 5–10. It was noted that this platform provides Georgian exporters with an opportunity to expand their presence in the Chinese market. Since 2018, over 120 Georgian companies have participated, and this year, more than 40 leading Georgian companies will be represented across three pavilions.
- Strengthening cooperation under the Middle Corridor project and the Belt and Road Initiative, which contributes to regional and global peace, stability, and development.
- Bilateral collaboration in civil aviation and tourism, including the significance of establishing new routes and increasing flight frequencies to deepen economic ties.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation that both sides are committed to further deepening the strategic partnership, promoting economic activities, and expanding cooperation across the economy, tourism, education, and cultural sectors.
Chinese Ambassador Discusses Georgia's Global Role in Tengiz Malania’s Film
October 27
On October 27, 2025, the Chinese Ambassador to Georgia, Zhou Qian, was invited to participate in the filming of the documentary by Georgian director Tengiz Malania, “Culture Saves the World” 《文化拯救世界》.
The documentary “Culture Saves the World”, produced with the support of the Ministry of Culture of Georgia and the Film Academy, aims to highlight Georgia’s role in promoting regional and global peace.
According to the ambassador, the spirit of the Silk Road is based on peaceful cooperation, openness, and mutual benefit. This route is not only an economic corridor but also a bridge for friendship and cultural exchange.
The ambassador emphasized President Xi Jinping’s global civilizational initiative, which calls for respect for the diversity of world civilizations, equality, and dialogue. According to Zhou Qian, the Silk Road is a practical expression of these principles.
Chinese Ambassador's Visit to Caucasus University
October 23On October 23, the Caucasus University was visited by H.E. Zhou Qian, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, who held a meeting with the university’s President, Kakha Shengelia, Vice-President for Internationalization, Irena Melua, and Director of the International Relations Department, Ketevan Karbaya.
During the meeting, the cooperation between Caucasus University and leading Chinese higher education institutions was discussed, including student exchange programs, short-term programs for both Georgian and Chinese students, as well as joint research projects.
Notably, Caucasus University actively collaborates with China, including through the 2020 memorandum of understanding signed with Sichuan Tourism University, which encompasses exchange programs for students and faculty as well as dual-degree programs. Last year, Caucasus University students had the opportunity to participate in the international summer camp organized by Sias University in China.
Through this multifaceted cooperation, Caucasus University not only strengthens academic ties with leading Chinese universities but also provides students and faculty with broad opportunities for international experience and cultural exchange.
Georgian Ambassador Paata Kalandadze Attended the Lanting Forum Event
October 27On October 27, 2025, Georgia’s Ambassador Paata Kalandadze attended a meeting organized by the Lanting Forum on improving global governance. At the event, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered a speech and introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which was presented in September 2025 at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting.
The initiative is based on five key concepts: upholding sovereign equality, ensuring the supremacy of international law, adhering to the principle of multilateralism, adopting a people-centered approach, and focusing on action.
The Lanting Forum is a communication platform established on the initiative of China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed at promoting dialogue among government officials, business representatives, academics, and media on foreign policy issues.
At the forum, Wang Yi noted that the GGI, or Global Governance Initiative, builds on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, reflects the traditions of Chinese diplomacy, embodies a vision of a shared future, and provides a pathway for the reform of global governance.
Shota Rustaveli University at Two International Theatre Festivals in China
October 23
On October 27, 2025, Georgia’s Ambassador Paata Kalandadze attended a meeting organized by the Lanting Forum on improving global governance. At the event, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered a speech and introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which was presented in September 2025 at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting.
The initiative is based on five key concepts: upholding sovereign equality, ensuring the supremacy of international law, adhering to the principle of multilateralism, adopting a people-centered approach, and focusing on action.
The World Theatre Education Alliance (WTEA), founded in 2016, brings together leading theatre schools and aims to promote the exchange of education and experience. As one of the founding members of the alliance, Shota Rustaveli University is participating in the festival for the fourth time.
In addition to the Beijing festival, from October 24 to November 2, the Georgian troupe will also take part in another major theatre event in China, the “Guilin Festival.”
Xinhua News Agency Interviews Director of the Food Safety Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan
October 20
Akbar Aliyev, Director of the Food Safety Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, discussed the outcome of the agency delegation’s visit to China in an interview with Chinese News Agency Xinhua.
In an interview, Akbar Aliyev noted that this year, the visit of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, to China significantly strengthened bilateral relations. According to him, it was precisely within the framework of cooperation between the two countries that the Azerbaijani nut export was launched to “one of the largest markets in the world”, China.
Aliyev emphasized the signed protocol between the Food Safety Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the relevant Chinese institution concerning the export of hazelnuts and almonds to China. At the same time, he noted that ongoing dialogues with the Chinese side are taking place regarding products, including chicken, apples, and berries, with a view to expanding exports.
Delegation of the Azerbaijan Metrology Institute in China
October 20Representatives of the Azerbaijan Metrology Institute, under the State Agency for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control, visited China on a working visit.
During the visit, the Azerbaijani delegation met with officials of the National Institute of Metrology of China.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the work directions and completed projects of the Azerbaijan Metrology Institute. Furthermore, the institutes explored the potential for cooperation in the field of Standard Reference Materials.
At this time, the parties discussed prospects for cooperation in implementing joint scientific and technical projects, training specialists, and organizing training programs.
Azerbaijan State Philharmonic at Shanghai International Arts Festival
October 21According to information released by the Azerbaijan State News Agency, representatives of the Azerbaijan State Philharmonic, in coordination with the Baku State Chamber Orchestra, participated in the 24th Shanghai International Arts Festival. The agency reported that the orchestra’s performance was received enthusiastically by the audience.
Chinese Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth in Azerbaijan
October 21On October 21, Li Renying, Deputy Secretary of the Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, visited the Republican Seismic Survey Center of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences.
Li Renying expressed interest in cooperation in the field of seismological research. The representative of the Chinese delegation proposed an initiative to sign a memorandum of cooperation for bilateral relations and noted, “We hope that the signing of this document will have a positive impact on the close development of our bilateral cooperation.”
Baku Engineering University at the Summit in China
October 22
Baku Engineering University Vice-Rector for International Relations, Atraba Gul, participated in the “University Partners Summit Hangzhou 2025” held in the People’s Republic of China.
The summit, organized by Beihan University of China, had the goal of strengthening cooperation between universities.
During the Summit, the Vice-Rector of Baku Engineering University held meetings with representatives of Chinese partner universities and participated in roundtable discussions. During these meetings, they discussed prospects for potential cooperation, including teacher-student exchange programs, the establishment of dual-degree programs, joint scientific research and innovation projects, and more.
A meeting was held on strengthening economic relations with China
October 23
The delegation of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade visited Azerbaijan on a work visit. During the visit, the roundtable discussions were held between the Chinese delegation and the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency.
During the meeting, the Agency’s Deputy Executive Director, Tural Hajili, spoke about the dynamics of relations between Azerbaijan and China, specifically regarding investment projects of Chinese companies in Azerbaijan as well as trade activities between the two countries. Additionally, on their part, Wang Hongwei, Party Secretary of the Shaanxi Provincial Committee of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, noted that there is significant potential for expanding mutual trade and investment cooperation.
During the roundtable discussions, Chinese companies delivered presentations. At the conclusion of the meetings, both parties discussed the potential for future cooperation.
A meeting with Azerbaijani students continuing their studies in China
October 24Within the framework of the Dual Diploma Program between Baku Engineering University and Beijing University of Chemical Technology, the first group of students from Azerbaijan will continue studying in China.
Last week, within the framework of a meeting held with Azerbaijani students from the aforementioned university, the educational process, students’ academic achievements, and their adaptation to the social environment were discussed.
It is noteworthy that this dual-degree program between Baku Engineering University and Beijing University of Chemical Technology is the first of its kind at the undergraduate level between Azerbaijani and Chinese universities. Under the program, students will receive education at both universities and obtain a dual diploma. The program comprises specialties in chemistry, computer engineering, and mechanical engineering. According to the Azerbaijan State News Agency, the admission capacity for the program is planned to be expanded in the coming years.
Armenian Ambassador at the China-SCO Summit
October 24Armenia’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, Vahe Gevorgyan, took part in the “China-SCO Investment Cooperation Forum” held in Beijing. The event, organized jointly by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Secretariat and the China Overseas Development Association (CODA), brought together representatives from over one hundred Chinese companies across sectors, including digitalization, transportation, energy, agriculture, tourism, medicine, and finance.
During the forum’s “Ambassadors’ Dialogue” panel, Ambassador Gevorgyan presented Armenia’s economic landscape and investment climate, emphasizing the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and pro-business reforms designed to attract foreign investment. He outlined priority areas for cooperation, such as high-tech industries, renewable energy, agri-processing, tourism infrastructure, and transport connectivity.
Ambassador Gevorgyan noted that Armenia’s participation in platforms like the “China-SCO” Forum reflects Yerevan’s broader commitment to economic diversification and diplomacy – aligning with its efforts to deepen engagement with Asian economies while preserving ties with Western and regional partners.
In an earlier interview with CGTN, Ambassador Gevorgyan emphasized that Armenia’s diplomatic engagement with China and the SCO is grounded in long-standing relations and mutual trust. He stated: “We believe there is no limit to our cooperation.” He also highlighted Armenia’s readiness to include China in connectivity- and infrastructure-oriented regional projects, reinforcing the idea that Yerevan seeks strategic partnerships beyond mere trade.
Uzbekistan Exports $629.8 Million in Gas to China as Russia Displaces Turkmenistan in Supplier Rankings
October 21
Uzbekistan exported approximately $629.8 million worth of natural gas via pipeline to China during the January–September period of this year, according to TASS, citing the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Russia has now taken the lead among suppliers of this resource to China, exporting $7.29 billion worth of gas. Turkmenistan, which for many years occupied the first place by a large margin, now ranks second, with its pipeline gas deliveries to China decreasing by 12.7% during the first nine months of the year, totaling $6.46 billion.
The Chinese Customs Administration has not published the physical volume of pipeline gas purchased from other countries in recent years. However, overall statistics from the PRC General Administration of Customs show that in 2024, China imported $21.1 billion worth of pipeline gas, an 8.6% increase compared to 2023.
Uzbekistan Launches International Phase of China-Based Digital Program
October 25
The next phase of the Seeds for the Future initiative — designed to support talented students with a strong interest in digital technologies — has officially commenced in Tashkent. The highlight: an invitation for Uzbek students to join the international training segment held in China.
Representatives from the Center for the Development of Digital Education, the Association for IT Education, university leadership, and alumni attended the launch. In his remarks, Center Director Azamat Eshonkulov emphasized the fast-paced growth of China’s digital economy and the rising demand for ICT specialists:
“In Uzbekistan, the digital economy is developing at a rapid pace, which increases the demand for qualified specialists. We are pleased to note the improvement in the educational level of our students and their growing interest in digital technologies, including through the participation of young people in global initiatives such as Seeds for the Future.”
Since 2008, the program, run by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., has engaged over 19,000 students from 142 countries and partnered with more than 500 universities worldwide. This year, ten students from six Uzbek universities have been invited to participate in the China-based international workshop, scheduled for October 19–25. During the week-long event in China, 150 students from 19 countries will engage in training on artificial intelligence, 5G communications, cloud technologies, and other modern IT disciplines.
Andijan to Build 200 MW Hydropower Plant in Partnership with Chinese Company
October 26
A new 200-megawatt hydropower plant is planned to be constructed in Andijan Region through a partnership between the regional government and China’s Sichuan Power Transmission & Transformation Construction company. The sides have agreed to implement a $500 million investment project that includes both the construction of the plant and the modernization of existing substations.
The agreement was reached during an official visit of the Andijan regional delegation to China, where they met with representatives of the Chinese company. According to the Andijan regional administration’s press service, the project aims to expand bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, introduce advanced technological solutions, and promote the development of renewable energy sources in the region.
Officials noted that the initiative will also contribute to upgrading the power grid, enhancing energy infrastructure, and improving environmental sustainability in Andijan.
For reference, Sichuan Power Transmission & Transformation Construction is one of China’s and the world’s leading companies in the field of electric power infrastructure and transmission systems.
