Georgian Economy Ministry dismisses “fake” media reports on Anaklia Port tender

The Georgian Economy Ministry on Saturday refuted media reports over the investor selection process for the Anaklia deep-sea port project in the country's northwest. 

The Ministry labelled the reports as “fake,” clarifying that China Communications Construction Group was not participating “in any manner” in the competition for the construction of the Anaklia port.

In its official statement, the Ministry emphasised that CCCG was neither a participant nor a subcontractor in the project and clarified the only consortium involved in the Anaklia port construction project was the Chinese-Singaporean consortium China Communications Construction Company Limited & China Harbor Investment Pte. Ltd. 

We believe these unfounded allegations are part of a politicised campaign aimed at hindering the Anaklia port project, with certain media outlets contributing to this narrative,” the statement added.

Georgian Economy Minister Levan Davitashvili on Wednesday announced that China Communications Construction Company Limited would soon be officially named the Georgian Government’s private partner for the Anaklia port project.

We have received proposals only from the Chinese consortium. They have submitted a detailed application proposal along with relevant bank guarantees. Therefore, in the coming days, we will declare the Chinese consortium as the winner and begin negotiations on the partnership agreement,” Davitashvili said.

The Minister also mentioned that a state company had been established to partner in the joint venture responsible for developing and managing the port. 

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday underscored the significance of involving the Chinese company in the Anaklia port project and highlighted the “strategic role” of Chinese freight in ensuring the port’s efficient operation.

Kobakhidze dismissed the speculations surrounding the China Communications Construction Company Limited and affirmed the company’s capability and “extensive experience”.