US-Georgia Business Climate: Georgia’s government says it will comply with US sanctions on Iranian airlines, a move that will disrupt direct flights to Tbilisi and Batumi from Sept. 21, drawing a sharp response from Iran’s ambassador. Legal & Governance: Former State Security Service chief Grigol Liluashvili was sentenced to 13 years for corruption; prosecutors say the case involved bribes tied to “call centers” and other deals, while defense and supporters call it politically motivated. Diplomacy & Investment: Georgian PM Irakli Kobakhidze met China’s DBH Group to discuss energy and renewable projects and the Middle Corridor’s role in trade; Georgia’s Economy Minister also met PASHA Holding to review $60m of past investment and future expansion. Regional Trade Routes: Azerbaijan and regional partners discussed extending China–Central Asia connectivity via the Caspian Sea to Azerbaijan, reinforcing Middle Corridor ambitions. EU Watch: EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen backed a new “associate member” model for Canada, signaling deeper economic and security cooperation. Energy & Logistics: Batumi Oil Terminal reported a record August transshipment volume since 2017, supported by resumed crude and aviation kerosene cargo. Finance: Remittances from Russia to Georgia fell 87.74% in August year-on-year, dropping Russia’s rank among sources. Corporate/Legal Risk: A US court ordered Georgia to pay ENKA over the Namakhvani HPP project, with Georgia saying it will appeal.