The Georgian government's decision to develop the Anaklia deep-sea port under a state-owned "landlord model" is the right approach and reflects international best practice, according to Davit Tsiklauri, adviser at PMCG. Speaking on BMGTV's Business Morning, he pointed to major ports such as Rotterdam and Abu Dhabi as examples where similar models have been successfully implemented.
Tsiklauri said the Anaklia project has always been highly political, with multiple geopolitical and commercial interests involved. He noted that concerns over cargo volumes and regional security have increased risks for potential investors, while geopolitical considerations have also influenced investment decisions.
According to him, recent visits by high-level delegations from Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and the United States demonstrate continued international interest in the project. He also argued that, with the East-West Highway nearing completion, Georgia needs new large-scale infrastructure projects to absorb available resources and sustain investment activity.
Tsiklauri added that raising the additional financing required for the project should not be difficult. He said Georgia is capable of securing the estimated $200 million from international financial institutions or partner countries and has the capacity to assume the project's financial risks given its long-term economic potential.
