Business Leaders Meet with PM Over Georgia’s Political Crisis
Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze met with big business leaders, including those from the Free Business Platform. The meeting was to discuss the country’s political crisis and find solutions.
The meeting lasted four hours. Business leaders had different opinions on how to solve the problem. Some said new elections could be a solution, while others disagreed.
Business representatives were invited to comment before and after the meeting. They shared their thoughts on what they thought should happen next.
Before the Meeting
Some business leaders believed that stability was key. Noshrevan Namoradze from VR Holding praised the government‘s work over the last decade. He compared Georgia’s situation with Ukraine and wondered if new elections would help.
Tea Zakaradze from TAV Georgia said that her company, which deals with aviation, needs peace and stability. She agreed that new elections could be a solution if things didn’t improve.
Others, like Beso Ortoidze from Arsi, emphasized the need for de-escalation. He said the government’s positions were the same as what they say publicly.
Irakli Iashvili from East Gate Group highlighted fears of currency instability. Giorgi Margvelashvili from Tbilvino reiterated the demands made by the Free Business Platform for new elections and prisoner releases.
Beka Bekaia from Nutrimax expected answers from the Prime Minister on how to de-escalate the situation. He stressed that businesses are in a difficult position, especially with fewer tourists.
After the Meeting
Some business leaders gave their thoughts after the meeting. Zurab Chkhaidze from Kakhetian Traditional Winemaking said that the government has a plan for growth and development. He believed new elections were not needed until 2027.
Beso Ortoidze confirmed that new elections were discussed at the meeting. Giorgi Margvelashvili noted that some business leaders expressed concerns about the use of force and treatment of prisoners.
Tea Zakaradze said they received answers to all their questions and promised action from the Prime Minister, including releasing prisoners before New Year’s Eve.
The Economy Minister’s Statement
Levan Davitashvili, the Minister of Economy, said that dialogue with business representatives was “interesting”. He added that opinions from both supporters and critics of the government were heard.