Kobakhidze Attends 2026 Antalya Diplomacy Forum
By Messenger Staff
Monday, April 20, 2026
Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, accompanied by Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili, participated in the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey from April 17 to 19.
During the Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties panel, Kobakhidze addressed the impact of global conflicts on trade and energy. While he reaffirmed Georgia's goal of joining the European Union, he claimed the bloc currently faces significant challenges regarding its identity, prosperity, and the rule of law. He also spoke extensively about a "lack of leadership" in global politics, alleging that "informal influences" and "wrong intentions" have disrupted the recruitment of national leaders and the traditional rules-based international order.
Regarding regional stability, the Kobakhidze positioned Georgia as a "reliable bridge" between Europe and Asia. He argued that the country's pro-peace and pro-development approach has secured high economic growth and fostered a strong partnership with Turkey. He further characterized diplomacy as an essential part of Georgia's history, noting that the nation has transitioned toward a more pragmatic strategy to survive its complex geopolitical environment.
Outside of the main panels, Kobakhidze met with OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioglu to discuss Georgia's ambition to assume the OSCE Chairmanship in 2027 and its commitment to democratic principles.
Simultaneously, Georgian Dream Foreign Minister Botchorishvili held bilateral meetings with officials from Albania and Kyrgyzstan to discuss cooperation and regional engagement.
