Georgia open to talks with all interested parties on Anaklia Port under new operating model, says Georgian Prime Minister

Georgia is ready to engage with all interested parties to ensure the successful launch of the Anaklia Deep Sea Port, with a new operating model designed to protect the country’s strategic interests while maximising cargo flows, said on Thursday Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

In his remarks, the Prime Minister noted that the model proposed by the Ministry of Economy and approved by the Government is the optimal approach for the project’s implementation.

“There is very broad interest in the Anaklia Port project. Countries from our region, the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and the Middle East have expressed interest, as have European entities, mainly private companies. We are ready to speak with all interested parties to ensure the port becomes operational as effectively as possible. The key to the port's successful operation is attracting cargo. We will establish partnerships with those who offer the best conditions”, he said.

Kobakhidze welcomed the renewed momentum in the port’s development, noting that work on infrastructure had resumed at a rapid pace after a temporary pause related to the review of existing contracts.

“There was a contract worth $200 million, and following negotiations led by the Minister of Economy and the Ministry of Economy with the relevant company, its value was reduced by $50 million. There was room to cut costs, and we managed to save substantial budgetary resources”, he noted.

Speaking about the new model, Kobakhidze said it would ensure that the port remains fully Georgian while allowing multiple states and companies to participate in its operation.

“The new model is optimal because it safeguards our national interests. The port will remain entirely Georgian, while at the same time enabling the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including interested countries and companies. As a result, it will ensure both the protection of our strategic national interests and the most efficient attraction of cargo. This is the optimal model proposed by the Ministry of Economy and approved by the Government of Georgia”, the Prime Minister concluded.