The Prime Minister of Georgia delivered a speech at the World Affairs Council. Mamuka Bakhtadze drew attention to Georgia"s logistical potential and the potential of the tourism industry. The head of the government responded to the questions of the board members after the speech.
The Prime Minister held a meeting with the head of one of the world"s largest port operators. The main topics of discussion were economic reforms implemented in Georgia, as well as ongoing and planned infrastructural projects. The focus was on the Anaklia Deep Seaport, which the Prime Minister assessed as a strategic project.
"We are building a multidimensional business center on the western coast of the Black Sea. We have all the preconditions of success and we are moving forward. Our country has 8.5 million guests annually. We are very proud, but at the same time, there is a firm decision to achieve even more. Our strategy is aimed at transforming Georgia into tourism, international business, logistics, educational and innovation center in the region, "said Mamuka Bakhtadze.
According to the Prime Minister, Georgia is seeking to join NATO and the European Union. The Prime Minister also talked about the challenges and occupation of the country.
"Despite everything, there are still challenges, as unfortunately, history confirms. Since 2008, 20% of our country"s territory has been occupied by Russia. After the occupation, a part of our population was forced to leave their homes. Our country is proud of its 8000-year history. We have lost 70 years to the Soviet occupation. And, of course, we will not give Russia the right to determine our future. We fully control our fate and our future vision is based on the ambition to become a world-class country where life, work and progress are possible. It may take some time to get back our territories, but this will definitely happen. Obviously, this will not happen with the use of force. This will be achieved through democracy, diplomacy, opportunities, development, and humanity," the Prime Minister said.
The meeting was attended by the financial director of "Holland America Group", Natalie Lee, who said that many people already learned about Georgia.
"Believe me, the largest part of the audience that has never heard about Georgia or very little about Georgia has now included your country into a list of top priorities. It is truly a wonderful country, which has achieved incredible progress both in economic development and in the region, and even in the world, one of the most open democracies. Today, the Prime Minister has shown that there are already very developed tourism sectors in Georgia and that there are many opportunities to support tourism from the country, some of which we have already discussed at today"s event, "said Natalie Lee.