Georgia Forges New Partnerships At Home And Abroad

On the heels of a new year, Georgia has found itself in the spotlight for more than one reason. While the country of Georgia has been deepening its diplomatic and economic ties with Turkmenistan, the city of Brookhaven in the U.S. state of Georgia is making waves in the tourism sector with fresh leadership and a major move. Although these stories unfold on different continents, they both reveal a shared ambition: to foster growth, collaboration, and a sense of vibrant community.

According to The Caspian Post, January 29, 2026, marked a significant step for Turkmenistan and Georgia as Deputy Foreign Minister Myahri Byashimova and Georgian Ambassador Konstantin Sabiashvili met in Ashgabat. The agenda was clear: expand trade and economic cooperation between the two nations. Both sides expressed a keen interest in promoting mutually beneficial initiatives, with a particular focus on priority sectors that could yield results for their economies and societies alike.

But trade wasn’t the only topic on the table. The meeting also delved into prospects for developing interparliamentary cooperation. This wasn’t a one-off conversation, either. Just days earlier, David Matikashvili, Chairman of the Georgian Parliamentary Committee on Procedural Issues and head of the Georgian-Turkmen Interparliamentary Friendship Group, met with Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Georgia, Dovletmyrat Seyitmammedov, at the Parliament of Georgia. Their discussion spanned the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation—political, diplomatic, economic, and even cultural-humanitarian spheres.

Special attention was paid to the role of interparliamentary friendship groups. As highlighted in the discussions, these groups are seen as vital instruments for promoting constructive and sustainable dialogue. The idea is simple: when lawmakers from different countries talk and build relationships, it becomes easier to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and keep the lines of communication open even when official channels get tangled in bureaucracy.

It’s worth noting that these efforts come at a time when many countries are re-examining their alliances and partnerships. For Georgia and Turkmenistan, strengthening ties isn’t just about economics—it’s about building a network of trust and understanding that can weather the unpredictable storms of global politics. While the specifics of the “priority sectors” weren’t detailed in the official releases, the emphasis on mutually beneficial initiatives suggests both sides are looking for practical, win-win outcomes rather than grand gestures or empty promises.

Meanwhile, thousands of miles away, another Georgia is making headlines for its own brand of growth and collaboration. On January 30, 2026, Explore Brookhaven—the official tourism board for Brookhaven, Georgia, USA—announced a flurry of changes designed to elevate the city’s profile as a destination for meetings, events, and community gatherings. The organization revealed that Tim Grow has stepped into the role of executive director, with Megan Brown joining as director of marketing. David Kemp, a familiar face, continues to lead the charge as director of sales.

But the big news doesn’t stop with personnel. Explore Brookhaven also announced its relocation to the new Brookhaven City Centre. This isn’t just a change of address; it’s a strategic move that puts the tourism board at the heart of the city’s action. By managing the venue space within the City Centre, Explore Brookhaven aims to play a hands-on role in attracting events, supporting local partners, and activating a central gathering place for both residents and visitors.

“I am honoured to step into the role of executive director and grateful for the trust placed in me by the Board and the City of Brookhaven,” said Grow, according to Explore Brookhaven. “I’m excited to build on the strong foundation already in place and work closely with our partners to continue elevating Brookhaven as a vibrant, welcoming destination for visitors and our community alike.”

The momentum doesn’t end there. Explore Brookhaven recently achieved Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) status through Destinations International. This accreditation places the organization among an elite group of destination organizations nationwide—a testament to its professionalism, strategic vision, and commitment to best practices in tourism marketing. For a city just northeast of Atlanta, this is no small feat. Brookhaven is already known for its diverse dining scene, walkable neighborhoods, green spaces, and a growing calendar of cultural and community events. Now, with DMAP status and a dynamic new team, the city is poised to attract even more attention from travelers and event planners alike.

Relocating to the Brookhaven City Centre represents more than just a physical move. It signals a broader ambition to serve as a hub for community programming, meetings, and events. By taking charge of the venue space, Explore Brookhaven can directly influence the types of gatherings that come to the city, ensuring they align with the community’s values and aspirations. This hands-on approach is expected to foster deeper partnerships with local businesses, arts organizations, and civic groups, creating a ripple effect that benefits everyone involved.

It’s hard not to draw a parallel between the diplomatic efforts in Ashgabat and the community-focused initiatives in Brookhaven. In both cases, leaders are betting on the power of dialogue, collaboration, and shared vision. Whether it’s building bridges between nations or between neighborhoods, the underlying principle is the same: progress happens when people come together with open minds and a willingness to work toward common goals.

For Georgia and Turkmenistan, the recent meetings underscore a broader trend in international relations: the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and grassroots engagement. While high-level summits and official state visits often grab headlines, it’s the day-to-day work of friendship groups and parliamentary committees that lays the groundwork for lasting cooperation. These forums allow for candid conversations, creative problem-solving, and the kind of relationship-building that can pay dividends in times of crisis.

On the local level, Explore Brookhaven’s achievements reflect a similar ethos. By investing in leadership, accreditation, and community infrastructure, the city is positioning itself as a place where people want to gather, celebrate, and do business. The emphasis on inclusivity, vibrancy, and authenticity resonates with today’s travelers, who are increasingly looking for destinations that offer more than just a place to sleep—they want experiences that feel genuine and connected to the local culture.

As both stories unfold, one thing becomes clear: whether in the corridors of power or the heart of a bustling city, the future belongs to those who embrace partnership, innovation, and a shared sense of purpose. The world may be vast, but the ties that bind communities—across countries or within city limits—are stronger than ever when nurtured with care and vision.