Elene Otarashvili, General Manager of Golden Tulip Design Tbilisi, has voiced strong concerns over the potential threat of visa liberalization being revoked for Georgia. Speaking on BMGTV, she emphasized that European integration is not just a strategic goal but an existential necessity for the country.
“I find it embarrassing even to raise this issue,” Otarashvili stated when asked about the risk of Georgia losing its visa-free access to the European Union. According to her, any restriction on visa liberalization would not only inconvenience citizens but also have far-reaching consequences on Georgia’s international standing.
“Being in the European family is part of our identity, our future, and the foundation of the progress we should strive for across all sectors. Restricting visa liberalization wouldn’t just mean longer lines at embassies, it would seriously damage the reputation we’ve worked so hard to build. This would make Georgia less attractive to both tourists and investors,” she warned.
Otarashvili stressed that in an era defined by digital transformation and artificial intelligence, Georgia cannot afford to isolate itself. “We are at a critical point where attracting foreign investment and integrating with modern technologies is vital. Turning our backs on Europe would be a major step backward,” she said, reiterating that there is no viable alternative to European integration.
In the interview, Otarashvili also spoke at length about current trends and challenges in Georgian tourism, particularly in the hotel industry, noting the importance of maintaining stability and trust on the international stage.
