As part of the project “Diaspora Engagement for the Sustainable Development of Montenegro – Phase II”, implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), a delegation from Montenegro’s Ministry of Diaspora, led by Minister Mr. Mirsad Azemović, conducted a study visit to Georgia from 14 to 18 April 2025. The visit aimed to explore Georgia’s successful diaspora engagement models and identify effective practices that could be adapted to support the further development of Montenegro’s national diaspora strategies.

During the visit, Minister Azemović met with Ms. Maka Botchorishvili, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia, to discuss the strengthening of bilateral cooperation, with a focus on diaspora engagement. The delegation also met with Mr. Irakli Zarkua, Chair of the Georgian Parliament’s Committee on Diaspora and Caucasus Issues and Mr Beka Odisharia, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Diaspora and Cultural Affairs, where they discussed opportunities for collaboration across multiple sectors, including education, innovation, and diaspora-led investment initiatives.

These meetings served as a platform for sharing institutional experiences, legislative frameworks, and visions for long-term engagement with diaspora communities as contributors to national development.

Widely regarded for success in diaspora policy, Georgia showcased a range of impactful practices that contribute to its success. This included aligning legislation to create an enabling environment for diaspora engagement, establishing robust institutional frameworks at both national and local levels, implementing comprehensive diaspora mapping to ensure more targeted and effective programming, and developing innovative municipal initiatives, such as those led by the Municipality of Khoni, that actively promote diaspora investments and partnerships for local development.

Through field visits, presentations, and direct exchanges with Georgian counterparts, Montenegrin officials were provided with hands-on knowledge, practical tools, and strategic inspiration for designing inclusive, sustainable, and action-oriented diaspora engagement models.

IOM extends its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia and the Municipality of Khoni for their warm hospitality, generosity, and the wealth of expertise shared during the visit. The study visit not only fostered institutional learning but also laid the foundation for continued collaboration and future partnerships between Montenegro and Georgia in the area of diaspora engagement.

IOM remains firmly committed to supporting the development and enhancement of diaspora engagement models globally; By encouraging international cooperation, capacity-building, and the exchange of knowledge and good practices, IOM contributes to the creation of impactful diaspora policies that promote inclusive and sustainable development.

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For more information, please contact Edina Osmanović, tel: +382 20 690 255, email: eosmanovic@iom.int