Georgian President calls for “unity” in aftermath of landslide in west

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili on Friday called on the public to “unite and overcome the tragedy together”, following a landslide that hit western Georgia’s Shovi resort on Thursday and killed at least 11 people.

Zourabichvili sent her condolences to the families of the victims of the disaster in the Racha region, and said her Administration was “ready” to become involved in the response efforts “if necessary”.

I want to express my deep sorrow for the tragedy that happened. I want to offer my condolences to the families of the dead and pray with the families who are still waiting for the missing people to be alive. This is a great tragedy for the country, for all of Georgia”, Zourabichvili said.

“We know to unite in the face of tragedy. The most important thing today is to come together to do everything we can to help people get through this difficult time in their lives”, she continued.

The President further extended her gratitude to rescuers and citizens assisting in the efforts following the disaster.

[M]y Administration and I personally express solidarity with the local leadership, authorities, all agencies, and the Government. Today is the time to unite and overcome this tragedy together”, the official noted.

Zourabichvili also expressed her readiness to engage in communication with foreign leaders together with the Georgian Government for requesting assistance in case of necessity.