Russia opposes Georgia's port plan

In a bid to revolutionize freight travel, Georgia's Anaklia project aims to cut travel times and boost trade volumes significantly by 2030. However, the initiative, bypassing Russia as a land conduit, has stirred geopolitical tensions.

As BBC reports, the Kremlin, viewing it as a US-backed project, opposes the Anaklia venture, with Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, expressing concerns about potential US submarine docking capabilities.

Despite Georgia's pro-EU sentiments among its populace, the government's relationship with Moscow remains intricate.

In 2020, the Georgian government canceled a contract to build the deep-sea port, a move criticized by Mamuka Khazaradze, leader of the original Anaklia Development Consortium.

Khazaradze alleges that the cancellation was a concession to Moscow's interests, citing a Russian base being constructed nearby.

Amidst accusations, the Georgian government insists on reviving the port plan, with the winning bid to be announced soon.

Nikoloz Samkharadze, chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, refutes claims of pro-Russian alignment, emphasizing Georgia's pursuit of EU ties.

As the European leaders convene for their December summit, Georgia awaits a crucial decision on its EU candidate status.

Samkharadze suggests Russia's actions in Ochamchire may be a strategy to thwart Georgia's European integration ambitions, showcasing the intricate balance Tbilisi must maintain in a region marked by historical conflicts.

[With information sourced from BBC]