The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia rejected information circulated in the media alleging that a sanctioned vessel is located at the Port of Poti.

According to the Agency, entry of all vessels into Georgian ports is strictly controlled in full compliance with international law and national legislation.

“We would like to respond to the information circulated in the media alleging that a sanctioned vessel is currently located at the Port of Poti. We emphatically state that this information is false and does not correspond to reality. For the purpose of informing the public, we clarify that the tanker Olga, which is insured by The American Club (USA), American Steamship Owners Mutual Protection & Indemnity Association, and is currently located at the Port of Poti, is not subject to European Union or United States sanctions. The vessel, sailing under the flag of the Russian Federation, has delivered diesel fuel, with the final destination being the Republic of Armenia. The operation is being carried out in full compliance with the laws of Georgia, international maritime regulations, and all applicable sanction regimes. The transit of the fuel is conducted in accordance with all relevant safety, environmental protection, and customs requirements.

The Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia once again reaffirms that entry of all vessels into Georgian ports is strictly controlled in full compliance with international law and national legislation. The Agency continues to ensure adherence to international standards of maritime safety, security, and environmental protection, as well as compliance with all sanction regimes in force at the time of a vessel’s entry.

Georgian ports are not used, including by third countries, for evading sanctions.

It should be noted that any vessel calling at Georgian ports is subject to prior coordination with the competent state authorities before entering Georgia’s territorial waters. These measures aim to prevent the entry of any sanctioned vessels into Georgian ports.

Therefore, we urge media outlets to act responsibly and refrain from disseminating false or unverified information, which misleads the public and distorts factual reality,” the statement by the Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia reads.