China-Georgia Relations: Prospects and Challenges for the Establishment of New Sphere of Influence in the South Caucasus in the Post Covid-19 Era

Abstract

China’s growing economic clout in Georgia through the Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) is significantly
creating a web of connectivity between Asia and Europe through the land and maritime routes of
Georgia. It is significant as it creates a new “Sphere of Influence” for China beyond its immediate
neighbourhood. However, maintaining such a sphere of influence for a long term strategic
advantage appears to be very challenging in recent times. Primarily because its emergence as a
powerful force has disturbed the strategic balance in the South Caucasus and foster severe
competition in the region in recent years. Georgia has become a battleground due to its strategic
location in the South Caucasus. The challenges have abruptly gone worse in recent months as
COVID-19 has severely impacted the state’s capacity to maintain its strategic influence outside its
borders. This paper examines how China’s growing role in the region has elevated its stature and
analyzes the challenges of maintaining its strategic position in the region.