PM: Russian Investments Pose no Threat

Georgian Prime Minister Zurab Nogaideli said on May 15 that Russian investments pose no threat to Georgian security and added that the authorities do not intend to impose “artificial restrictions” on the Russian state or private companies which will participate in the privatization process in Georgia.

Recently, some Georgian analysts have expressed concern regarding Tbilisi’s “open-door policy” towards Russian investments against the background of extremely tense political ties between the two neighbors.

“Any kind of investment, whether it is Russian or from another country, whether it is private or state investment, creates additional jobs, strengthens Georgia’s economy, increases income for the state budget – thereby strengthening the country. So we will continue this policy in the future as well,” PM Nogaideli said on the political talk show Pirvelebi (Leaders) aired on Imedi television on May 15.

“Imposing artificial restrictions for representatives of a certain country during the privatization process in Georgia will never be on the agenda, whether it is Russia, or another country. It makes no sense and it will bring no results and we are not going to follow this path. And this represents no threat to Georgia’s security,” the Prime Minister stated.

“I want to reiterate, if Russian investors, private or state, participate in the privatization process it will create additional jobs and revenues and I can only welcome this. This is the policy we are pursuing and will pursue in the future… But we will not let anyone mount political pressure against Georgia,” he added.

Nogaideli said that the government “is not even considering” privatizing the country’s trunk gas pipeline.

He noted that in June the government will privatize power facilities, including three electricity distribution companies and six hydro power plants, except of country’s largest Enguri hydro power plant.

He also said that increase of gas price and closing down Russian markets “was not just an emotional decision” by Russia, but part of the well-planned policy towards Georgia.

He said that Georgia’s “plan to resist this policy” of Russia consists of two directions: development of the country’s economy and international efforts, including integration process to the Euro-Atlantic structures.