The National Bank of Georgia initiated and organized an international conference titled "Development of Financial Technologies - Challenges and Opportunities."

As part of the conference, the NBG presented its FinTech Development Strategy, prepared in partnership with the World Bank. The strategy outlines a long-term vision for the advancement of financial technologies in Georgia.

The event brought together representatives from the financial sector, government institutions, international organizations, and invited experts.

Keynote addresses were delivered by Natia Turnava, Governor of the National Bank of Georgia; Levan Davitashvili, First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development; Paata Salia, Minister of Justice; Kakha Kaladze, Mayor of Tbilisi; and Robert Bregy, Secretary General of the City of Lugano.

In her speech, Natia Turnava highlighted the key achievements, ongoing initiatives, and future plans aimed at advancing financial technologies and services in Georgia. She emphasized that the FinTech Development Strategy will play a vital role in fostering the growth of Georgia’s fintech sector and enhancing its competitiveness on both regional and global levels.

"The FinTech Strategy, developed in partnership with the World Bank, outlines our long-term vision for financial technologies. Active involvement from relevant government agencies and the private sector is essential to this process. I hope today’s event will help foster a shared vision and support the continued growth of the fintech ecosystem," stated Natia Turnava.

First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Levan Davitashvili, emphasized that Georgia is a highly developed country in terms of access to finance, and its banking sector is one of the leading in the region.

"The development of financial technologies is a key driver for our country’s economic progress. In recent years, Georgia has seen unprecedented growth, with average real economic growth exceeding 9.5% over the past four years. However, to maintain and build on this momentum, the inclusive development of financial services is essential," stated Levan Davitashvili, First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development.

According to Paata Salia, Minister of Justice, cooperation between the public and private sectors plays a pivotal role in laying the foundation for innovation amid technological advancement and digital transformation.

“Collaboration on the FinTech Strategy-and beyond-has positioned the Ministry of Justice as one of the leading agencies in digital governance and the adoption of digital technologies. In this era of digital transformation, we remain committed to exploring innovations that enhance the efficiency and accessibility of public services and contribute to the advancement of digital governance,” noted Salia.

Kakha Kaladze, Mayor of Tbilisi, emphasized that Georgia’s technological infrastructure is already highly developed. He highlighted the notable progress made by the commercial banking sector, especially the introduction of innovations that simplify everyday financial operations for citizens.

“Our country’s geographic location enables a unique blend of cultural diversity and ease of doing business in the fintech sector-factors that drive demand for cutting-edge technologies and services. Technology has the power to overcome geographic limitations, enhance the speed, security, and transparency of transactions, and deliver financial services that are better tailored to the needs of both local consumers and international visitors,” stated Kaladze.

Robert Bregy, Secretary General of the City of Lugano, Switzerland, shared Lugano’s experience in developing and implementing financial technologies. He emphasized the importance of mutual learning, noting that while presenting his city’s achievements, he was also inspired by the impressive initiatives underway in Georgia and the broader region.

“In today’s rapidly changing world, innovation must be purposeful. By working together, we can drive meaningful progress. Technology enables us to better serve our citizens and ensure that no one is left behind. At the heart of our efforts lies a simple belief: together, we can build a brighter future-one where innovation is not reserved for a select few but becomes a powerful tool for inclusion, social support, and shared prosperity,” stated Bregy.

The event continued with thematic presentations and panel discussions, where participants explored the future of fintech and addressed key challenges facing the industry.

The primary goal of the international conference was to raise awareness of the FinTech Development Strategy and to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors-both in shaping the strategy and ensuring its effective implementation.