Georgian PM says ‘Arabisation’ campaign against Eagle Hills investment has failed

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has said that a campaign criticising the investment project of Eagle Hills and warning of the so-called “Arabisation” of the country has failed.

Speaking while assessing a debate broadcast on Imedi TV, Kobakhidze said the public had been able to receive more information about the Eagle Hills project and migration issues following the discussion.

“There was a very large campaign surrounding the Eagle Hills investment regarding the so-called Arabisation, but that campaign failed. Society has also become convinced that this investment is absolutely real and that it will contribute to the economic development of our country,” Kobakhidze said.

The Prime Minister said some people refused to participate in debates, which he said showed they were afraid of open discussion.

“The issues of migration and the Eagle Hills project are very topical and until now society had been receiving information in a monologue format. When you are spoken to only in a monologue, you naturally cannot receive comprehensive information. Today there was an opportunity for discussion and the public likely received much more information about both topics,” he said.

Kobakhidze added that the debate was largely constructive and expressed confidence that similar discussions would continue on Imedi TV.

Addressing concerns about migration and demographics, the Prime Minister said these were difficult and sensitive issues, but that the Government was taking steps and proposing initiatives to improve the situation.

Regarding the Eagle Hills investment, he said claims about “Arabisation” had been exaggerated.

“When eight apartments out of 257 are sold to Arab citizens, it becomes clear that this campaign was fabricated. We also had the opportunity to discuss the financial aspects, and society has likely become convinced that the investment is real and will benefit Georgia’s economic development,” Kobakhidze said.