The 1st International Economic Forum is not just a business discussion; it is South Ossetia's manifesto to the world, the indication that the Republic is open, believes in the power of partnership, and is willing and able to create, President Alan Gagloev said at the opening of the 2025 IEF.
The 1st International Economic Forum "South Ossetia: Investment Horizons" is taking place in Tskhinval. Approximately 3,000 people attended the Forum. The event is timed to coincide with the Republic's 35th anniversary.
"This event is of historic significance; it opens new horizons for economic development for South Ossetia, capable of defining the modern image of our country, focused on dynamic cooperation with the outside world," the President said.
The head of state has noted that today's Forum is proof that South Ossetia is standing firmly on its feet, confidently looking to the future, and is ready for honest and equal partnership.
"Our people have endured difficult trials, but always believed in their right to life, work, and creativity. We are a people who have proven our right to freedom, and now we are proving our right to prosperity," Gagloev has emphasized.
The President has added that, since 2008, South Ossetia, together with the Russian Federation, has been able to overcome the difficult path of recovery.
"The Republic has gotten back on its feet, restored its infrastructure, and created the foundation for sustainable growth. Hundreds of kilometers of roads have been repaired, modern schools and hospitals have been built, and critical infrastructure has been strengthened. All this has become a solid foundation that has allowed us to begin building the economy of the future. We have every reason to proudly state that the Republic, reborn from ruins, has become a land of new opportunities. "Today, South Ossetia is entering a phase of development based on innovation and investment," the President said.
The head of state has emphasized that South Ossetia is open to cooperation and offers investors reliable guarantees, transparent regulations, and full state support.
"Our goal is to create a favorable business environment where every ruble invested contributes to the Republic's prosperity and brings tangible returns. We have identified key areas for investment: industry, agriculture, tourism, and the hotel industry. These sectors will become drivers of growth, sources of jobs, and platforms for the introduction of new technologies. Let this Forum become a milestone ushering in a new era—the era of confident growth, development, and integration of South Ossetia into the Russian and international economic space," the President said.
Gagloev thanked everyone who accepted the invitation and is ready to join South Ossetia on the path of creation.
"Let this Forum become a symbol of a future in which South Ossetia takes its rightful place among forward-looking countries! I believe that your ideas and energy will help transform investment horizons into reality, and dreams into concrete projects. Together, we can not only strengthen South Ossetia's economy but also lay the foundation for the well-being of future generations," Gagloev has concluded, wishing the Forum participants meaningful discussions, creative solutions, and productive work.
The 1st International Economic Forum opened in Tskhinval on Thursday. For three days—September 18–20—business platforms will be held at the sports complex to explore new growth areas, communicate on the Republic's foreign economic activity, and discuss opportunities to enhance the state's investment attractiveness.
