Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has stated that Georgia remains open to tourists from all countries, including Russia, and that reports claiming Russian citizens are not welcome or face danger in the country are false.
In his statement on August 6, Kobakhidze emphasized that “our doors are open to everyone, any tourists” and that Georgia’s cultural traditions align with its economic interests. He noted efforts to ensure an appropriate environment for all visitors.
The Prime Minister addressed a criminal case initiated by the Georgian State Security Service into possible sabotage related to social media posts alleging negative attitudes toward Russian tourists. Kobakhidze reported that fake accounts created outside Georgia were used to disseminate disinformation among opposition-minded citizens within the country. He stressed that the investigation must be completed to identify all participants in any potential crime and that those acting against Georgia’s interests will be held accountable.
Additionally, Kobakhidze stated on August 4 that the shift in rhetoric by Georgian political opponents toward Russia occurred after the outbreak of hostilities in Ukraine, not following the events of 2008. He attributed this change to instructions received from external forces.
Viktor Vodolatsky, deputy chairman of the State Duma Committee on CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration and Relations with Compatriots, said on July 21 that an attack on a Russian tourist in Georgia and the subsequent rally supporting Russia constituted a provocation by the opposition aimed at undermining relations between Moscow and Tbilisi.
