The government will fully protect Georgia’s national and demographic interests, and will implement projects aimed at ensuring economic progress and greater prosperity for the country’s population only under these conditions, Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated.

Kobakhidze noted that the government is prepared to answer all questions regarding the key provisions of the agreement signed with Eagle Hills, adding that the general development plan will be approved transparently and in full compliance with legal procedures.

“As for granting the contract the status of a commercial secret, this decision is based, on the one hand, on Georgian legislation and, on the other hand, on international practice. The state has nothing to hide from its citizens and is ready to answer all questions related to the contract. However, it is in the interest of any commercial company to keep certain details confidential to maintain flexibility when negotiating with future potential partners. This is the sole reason why the contract was classified as a commercial secret.

When the businessman leading a political party is fully aware of this yet continues to fuel speculation, it is difficult not to recall how burdensome the role of a foreign agent can be. I repeat: we are ready to answer any questions regarding all fundamental aspects of the contract. As for the general development plan, it will be approved transparently by the Ministry of Economy and the relevant municipalities, in full compliance with all legal procedures and safeguards.

I would also like to remind you of the false xenophobic campaign launched three years ago about the supposed ‘Russification’ of Georgia and alleged threats to national security. At the time, we assured the public that the state had everything under control and promised that neither ‘Russification’ nor any threat to the country’s national interests would occur. Today, three years later, it is clear to everyone that the alarm raised by foreign agents—through which many honest citizens were misled—had no basis in reality, and the government kept its word.
Today, we make the same promise to our fellow citizens. The government will fully protect Georgia’s national and demographic interests, and only under these conditions will any project be implemented—projects that will contribute to Georgia’s economic progress and improve the well-being of our population,” the Prime Minister said.