MP Kadagishvili: Gov’t chose best approach for Anaklia Port

The Georgian authorities have taken an objective approach to the development of the Anaklia Deep Sea Port over the years, and the state has now reached a stage of development and capability where it can independently launch such a large-scale strategic project, Chair of Parliament’s Self-Government Committee Irakli Kadagishvili said.

According to Kadagishvili, the Georgian government has made the best possible decision, one that is also supported by international experience.

“Connectivity and the Middle Corridor are undoubtedly of geopolitical importance for Georgia. The fact that some European officials overlook the significance of geography and geopolitics in relation to the Middle Corridor is only temporary. Naturally, the Anaklia Port has its own strategic importance. For years, the Georgian government has approached the development of the port objectively, seeking to remain fair and constructive toward potential investors.

“Today, the state has reached a level of development and capacity that enables it to independently launch such a strategic and large-scale project. In practice, construction has already been underway for about a year, including work on the port itself and the necessary connecting infrastructure.

“We are inviting China and the countries of Central Asia to participate in the project as partners, while ensuring that the state remains the owner of the core maritime and port infrastructure and that all interested parties join the project through equity participation. We are aware that China also considered whether involving additional stakeholders would be beneficial. The Georgian government has made the best possible decision, one that is backed by international experience,” Kadagishvili said.

Earlier on Monday, Economy and Sustainable Development Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili announced that the government had decided to develop the Anaklia Deep Sea Port under the landlord model, under which the state will retain ownership of the core maritime and port infrastructure while private partners will participate in the project’s development and operation.