The foundation of the British Georgian Chamber of Commerce is an exciting new initiative, that fulfils a real need. The BGCC provides a place for businesspeople interested in UK-Georgia trade to meet, to exchange experiences and to find answers to questions. I was delighted to attend the BGCC’s inaugural event in London in June and am looking forward to their first event in Tbilisi on 10 September. I am glad that the UK is one of the leading investors in Georgia. BP, for example, has a significant commitment here and HSBC will be opening branch here later in the year. These are signs of the growing confidence of businesspeople in Georgia and the UK in doing business with each other.

We see Georgia as a country committed to the successful reform of its economy and governance, and one which is steadily growing closer to Europe across the full range of activity.

Continuing on this path will ensure that Georgia becomes an increasingly attractive business partner. The foundation of the British Georgian Chamber of Commerce shows that there is real interest in this. My colleagues and I at the Embassy are looking forward to working with the BGCC and its members over the coming years.