Middle Corridor Development Should Focus on Economic Cooperation, Says Former Georgian Finance Minister

Baku:The development of the Middle Corridor should extend beyond its role as a transit route, according to Aleksi Aleksishvili, Chairman of the Policy and Management Consulting Group (PMCG) Board and former Georgian Finance Minister. Speaking at the plenary session titled 'Realizing CAMCA's Development Potential Political Foundations of Regional Cooperation' at the CAMCA 2026 Regional Forum, Aleksishvili emphasized the importance of connectivity and economic cooperation.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, Aleksishvili highlighted that the focus should not just be on the corridor's geographical location and transit capabilities. The key lies in connectivity and economic cooperation, where trade, in particular, plays a significant role.

Aleksishvili pointed out that the Middle Corridor offers a historic opportunity for countries in the region to develop new economic cooperation models. He stressed the need to create paths for cooperation and to shape economic growth models through regional collaboration.

He further explained that regional connectivity involves more than trade; it includes the movement of capital, labor, and skills, as well as the development of institutional frameworks. Aleksishvili also underlined the importance of efficient infrastructure operation and expanding interaction opportunities between countries.

Finally, he addressed the financing of regional projects, noting the need for further development of the non-bank financial sector, even as the banking sector continues to grow.