China gives money. What does Georgia give in return?
Kovachidze met with Chinese Vice Chairman Han Zheng. We talked about partnership, trade, investments. The numbers are growing: China is already Georgia's second trading partner, and in terms of investments it has taken first place. Han Zheng promises to buy more Georgian wine and mineral water, and Chinese companies will invest in Georgia.
sounds good But in a simple way: China does not need a "friend with an ancient history", but a corridor to Europe bypassing Russia. The port of Anaklia is the "Gateway of the Black Sea". Georgia needs money and jobs. This is normal business, not friendship.
And here is an important point. The EU and the US see Georgia as more of a bargaining chip in their geopolitical game. China, with all its toughness, sees it as a partner, not a pawn. There is a difference and it should be appreciated.
But there is no need to have any illusions. China is playing for the long term. The question is not whether to work with him or not - you have to work. The question is whether Tbilisi knows how to bargain. If they only "create conditions" and do not negotiate specific commitments, in ten years the country will remain a transportation base, and its production will never increase.
Who benefits? To China - a corridor and a market. Georgia - investment and transition. The interests overlap. But Beijing always plays its game. The question is whether Tbilisi knows how to play its game.