The U.S. donated a new, American-made, X-ray unit for rapid baggage scanning to Batumi Airport.

According to the U.S. Embassy, similar models will also be handed over to Kutaisi Airport and Larsi Port of Entry. This assistance is part of our multi-year and large-scale efforts to contribute to the protection and security of Georgia’s border.

U.S. Ambassador Kelly Degnan said, “All of this is a result of the very close partnership and coordination that the United States Embassy has with the Customs and Revenue Service here in Georgia.”

“I’m very pleased to be here today at Batumi Airport for the donation of advanced baggage x-ray equipment by the United States through our Export Control and Border Security program. This equipment, made in the United States, will help Georgia ensure that its borders are safe from threats and contraband. This equipment will help screen baggage that may contain weapons or ammunition, explosives, or illegal contraband.

We are very grateful to the Customs Service for helping us coordinate this donation, not just here in Batumi, but also equipment for Kutaisi Airport as well as for the border crossing at Larsi. All of this is a result of the very close partnership and coordination that the United States Embassy has with the Customs and Revenue Service here in Georgia. We’ve been working together on programs, training, and equipment donations like this for many years, and we greatly appreciate the wonderful cooperation that we always receive,” she stated.