Stephen Nelson, the Satellite Policy Director at SpaceX, Elon Musk’s space technology firm, highlighted Georgia’s strategic location as a “bridge between Europe and Asia” during a session at the Internet Governance Global Forum in Saudi Arabia, organized by the Georgian National Communications Commission. He pointed out that this positioning enhances Georgia’s potential as a vital transport and logistics center along the Trans-Caspian trade corridor.
Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia has naturally evolved into a link between the East and West. Historically, it has served as a crucial connector, and today, its geographic advantage is becoming even more significant, Nelson remarked.
Emphasizing Georgia’s important location, Nelson also acknowledged the pioneering role of the Commission, noting that it was the first telecommunications regulator in the Caucasus to authorize Starlink’s satellite internet services.
This licensing has enabled Starlink to overcome geographical barriers, improving access to digital services across Georgia, he explained.
The proactive and forward-thinking approach of the Commission has fostered an environment that supports cutting-edge technologies like Starlink, providing high-speed, low-latency internet to users throughout the country, Nelson added.
In remote mountainous areas, where communities have long struggled with inadequate communication infrastructure, Starlink is now offering internet speeds of 100-200 Mb/s with a latency of just 20 milliseconds, he shared.
Looking to the future, Nelson revealed that Starlink plans to roll out new business models in Georgia starting next year.
He also forecasted upcoming advancements, including enhanced spectrum efficiency, speeds of up to 1 Gb/s, and even lower-latency internet services.
Nelson further discussed the concept of “digital corridors”, likening them to modern-day Silk Roads that promote seamless communication and cross-border cooperation while democratizing access to knowledge and markets.
He concluded by reaffirming SpaceX’s commitment to collaborating with the Commission to advance technological progress in Georgia throughout 2025.
