The Anaklia Deep Sea Port was initially planned to be developed with a single strategic partner, but the approach has changed and the port will now be built with the direct involvement of the state, said on Friday Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

In his remarks, Kobakhidze noted that the new model is the ideal approach, as it ensures the maximum protection of Georgia’s national interests while allowing for a diverse range of international partners.

“I would like to thank the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development and the Minister. It was very important to continue this project under this approach. As you know, the Anaklia Deep Sea Port was previously planned to be developed with one specific partner. Now the approach has changed, and the port will be built with the direct involvement of the state”, he said.

“The state will oversee the entire process, and once construction is completed, the operation of the port may be entrusted to several operators, while ownership of the port will remain with the state. This is the ideal model, as it ensures the maximum protection of our national interests and also guarantees the diversification of partners. This is crucial for attracting the highest possible cargo volumes to the Anaklia Port and for ensuring its most efficient operation”, Kobakhidze concluded.

The Anaklia Deep Sea Port will be developed under the internationally recognized landlord port model, under which the state will finance and build the core infrastructure and retain 100% ownership of the port’s primary maritime and port infrastructure.

At the same time, the specialized terminals within the port will be leased on a long-term basis to international operators and investors.