Visit of the PABSEC President, Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia and the Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia to the PABSEC International Secretariat, Istanbul, 15 April 2026
On 15 April 2026, H.E. Mr. Shalva Papuashvili, PABSEC President, Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia and H.E. Mr. Afrim Gashi, Speaker of the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia, visited the PABSEC International Secretariat in Istanbul.
During the visit, a meeting was held with Mr. Asaf Hajiyev, PABSEC Secretary General.
The Secretary General warmly welcomed the delegations and expressed appreciation for the continued support and active engagement of the Parliament of Georgia and the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia in the activities of PABSEC. He underscored the particular significance of the visit, noting that it constitutes an important occasion in the history of the Organization, as it brought together the Speakers of two Member States at the PABSEC International Secretariat. The Secretary General also briefed the guests on the ongoing activities of the Organization and the preparations for the 67th PABSEC General Assembly, to be held in Georgia, on 29 June - 1 July 2026.
The high-level officials reaffirmed their commitment to the principles and objectives of PABSEC, emphasizing the importance of further strengthening parliamentary cooperation in the Black Sea region. They expressed their readiness to continue supporting the Assembly’s initiatives aimed at promoting regional stability, economic development, and mutual understanding.
The sides exchanged views on the current situation in the region, addressing recent developments and challenges of common concern. In this context, they highlighted the importance of maintaining stability and constructive dialogue, as well as the need for coordinated efforts to address emerging challenges through multilateral cooperation and parliamentary engagement.
In the framework of the visit, a bilateral meeting was also held between H.E. Mr. Shalva Papuashvili and H.E. Mr. Afrim Gashi. During the meeting, the two Speakers discussed issues of mutual interest and explored opportunities to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, including within the framework of regional and parliamentary initiatives.