Parliament Speaker highlights importance of visa-free travel for Chinese citizens for country’s economy

Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili on Monday highlighted the task of “using all opportunities” to strengthen the country’s economy, following the Government’s decision to establish visa-free travel to the country for Chinese citizens. 

In his remarks over the matter, Papuashvili noted the decision was “important both for domestic tourism and investments”.

It is about giving more opportunities to the Georgian economy to strengthen. We are using all opportunities. This increases the possibility of tourism development. The number of tourists going abroad from China is quite large”, he said.

“In general, external tourism is popular in China, and it will be possible for Georgia to attract this segment as well. Both visa-free travel and direct flights will contribute to this. In addition, it is also important for investments”, the official added.

The chief Georgian legislator also rejected “any attempts” to put the Government’s decision “in a different context”. 

Even in terms of integration with Europe, the strength of the Georgian economy is important - no one needs an economically weak country in the European Union. It is about giving the Georgian economy more opportunities to strengthen”, he concluded.

Earlier today Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili announced visa-free travel for Chinese citizens, citing attracting visitors and mutual economic investments among “main interests” behind the decision.