Representatives of the tourism sector demand to set visa regime for Russian citizens in Georgia. Several petitions have also been created for this purpose. According to them, the influx of a large number of Russian citizens in Georgia is rather risky.
Maia Sidamonidze, the managing partner of Protrevel Georgia, told that TV-program Business Morning, noting that Russian citizens who enter Georgia are not tourists and directly say that they come to live in the country. Consequently, it is not surprising that people are irritated by the massive influx of Russians.
"This attitude is normal considering that 20% of Georgia is occupied by Russia. On the other hand, our brotherly nation is being bombed and innocent people are dying every day," Sidamonidze said.
According to her, taking into account the national interest, there should be a migration policy in the country and according to that, a visa regime should be created, which will control migration from Russia.
"This is a threat to Georgia, because in any country where Russian citizens predominate today, it is proven they are followed by Putin's troops, so it is important to establish regulations," Sidamonidze said.
In addition, part of the representatives of the tourism sector, along with imposing a visa regime, demand introduction of the so-called occupation tax for Russian tourists. The business additionally demands that all incoming Russian tourists sign the document, thus recognizing Georgia's sovereignty and condemning Russia's aggressive policy.
