Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Levan Davitashvili, on Monday emphasised the importance of enhancing Georgia's port infrastructure while safeguarding state interests. 

Speaking after the government session, Davitashvili expressed confidence that both the Poti and Anaklia port projects in the country’s west would contribute to Georgia's growth.

He stressed the need to ensure that developments in port infrastructure align with the country's interests, prioritising smooth operations and competitiveness. Davitashvili acknowledged the significance of dialogue with partners such as Poti APM Terminals, highlighting ongoing discussions regarding investment conditions and state obligations.

Recognizing the evolving business environment, Davitashvili underscored the necessity for flexible negotiation, acknowledging changes in conditions over the years and noted the complexities inherent in projects like Anaklia deep sea port, particularly as a "greenfield" endeavour, affirming the government's commitment to balancing investor needs with state interests.

Davitashvili dismissed any association between project progress and the involvement of specific countries, asserting that both initiatives would be executed to enhance Georgia's prospects and safeguard its interests.

On May 29 Davitashvili said a Chinese-Singaporean consortium would build the strategic Anaklia port. 

The decision has sparked controversy due to the reputations of two companies within the consortium named by Minister Davitashvili. China Communication Construction Company Limited, one of the companies involved, has been reportedly blacklisted by the US Department of Commerce for its involvement in constructing artificial islands in the South China Sea, purportedly for military purposes. Similarly, China Road and Bridge Corporation, another entity in the consortium, has faced sanctions from the World Bank for fraudulent activities linked to the Philippines’ National Road Improvement and Management Program.

The Government opponents also claimed by the move the Georgian Dream authorities had taken “another action” to distance the country from the West and benefit Russian-Chinese interests.