Jeffrey Sachs: Peace, Cooperation, and Pragmatism Are Georgia’s Strategic Opportunities

“Georgia needs wise state management and a clear vision of how various global challenges will unfold in the future. The key lies in peace, cooperation, and pragmatism—finding win-win solutions for all. Not belief in miracles, but realistic approaches,” said Columbia University professor Jeffrey Sachs during an international conference marking the 30th anniversary of the Georgian lari’s introduction.

In his address, Sachs emphasized the significant disruption of the old world order, pointing to geopolitical shifts as a key factor shaping the new global agenda. He also highlighted the influence of technological, ecological, and demographic changes.

Sachs noted Georgia’s challenging geopolitical location, which, despite its complexity, offers distinct economic opportunities.

“For a small country like Georgia, the neighborhood presents difficulties—but also strategic potential. The well-known North-South and East-West transport corridors, which connect Europe and Asia through the South Caucasus, pass through Georgia. The country should seize this opportunity wisely,” he stated.