Exploring Blockchain Integration for Georgia's Economic Digitalization

Ripple leadership recently convened with Natia Turnava, the Governor of Georgia's National Bank, to deliberate on the utilization of blockchain technology for the digitalization of Georgia's economy.

The meeting between Ripple executives, including James Wallis, vice president of Ripple, and Alistair Brown, vice president of EPAM Systems, and NBG representatives, marked a step towards potential collaborations in advancing Georgia's economic digitalization efforts.

Details of the conversation were kept confidential; however, a spokesperson from the central bank verified that the primary focus was on identifying collaborative opportunities for enhancing the digital landscape of Georgia's economy. Both Ripple and NBG were contacted for additional insights, with pending updates.

In a notable announcement in late 2023, NBG designated Ripple as its official technological partner for the development of the digital lari, Georgia's central bank digital currency (CBDC). Ripple's involvement in the pilot program with NBG aims to evaluate the practical implications of CBDC technology for various sectors, encompassing the public sector, businesses, and retail consumers. The connection between the recent discussions and the digital lari initiative remains unclear.