Tbilisi Mayor says he ‘sees no problem’ in giving interview to Russian-language blogger

Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze said he sees no problem in giving an interview to a Russian-language blogger, saying he happened to meet the woman and agreed to answer her questions about the Georgian capital.

Kaladze said he encountered the blogger by chance several days ago while she was visiting a municipal project and later stopped at a café.

"I don't know whether this particular person is a blogger or a journalist. A few days ago, I was at a municipal project and then went into a café to get some coffee. I happened to meet this woman. She told me that she was preparing a piece about Tbilisi and asked me some questions. I see no problem with that," Kaladze said.

He added that anyone wishing to visit Georgia should be welcome, regardless of their nationality.

"I will say again that anyone who wants to visit our country can come at any time, regardless of their origin. Whether they are Russian, Ukrainian, Italian, American or from any other country, everyone can come and enjoy their time here. They will spend money, which will benefit our economy and the people working in the tourism sector," Kaladze said.

Asked why he discussed Georgian cuisine during the interview, Kaladze said the question had concerned Georgian hospitality.

"The question was about hospitality, and I answered it. Of course, besides traditional food, we have many attractions. That is precisely what makes our country interesting and why visitors from around the world are interested in coming here. Georgian cuisine and wine are also very popular because they are part of our culture and traditions," he said.