Georgia
US partner ‘has pulled out of Georgia’s Anaklia deep water port project’
Withdrawal reportedly caused by lack of government backing for country’s flagship infrastructure development. Analysts anticipate investment mothballing or arrival of Russian or Chinese stakeholders to replace Western partners.
Georgia’s political airwaves battle heats up with new channel announcement
Likely financier is controversial ex-defence minister turned oligarch. Meanwhile, new anti-government movement planned by TBC Bank founder.
Georgia’s main opposition TV station could fall into pro-government hands
Former owner of Rustavi 2 who regained control through the courts offers to sell broadcaster and calls for insolvency proceedings to be launched.
Georgia in vino vertitas
The Georgians like to describe themselves as the “cradle of wine” with a rich, 8,000-year history of wine-making. Wine was produced and drunk in Tbilisi before the Roman Empire was founded and today it remains home to over 500 unique grape varieties
Intrigue as ex-Georgian defence minister arrested over anti-government protests
Prior to detention, Irakli Okruashvili claimed ownership of Rustavi 2, a TV station that backs the opposition. Tug of war for new influence at broadcaster ahead of elections under way after European court decision.
Co-founders of Georgia’s TBC Bank Group step down, prepare to battle money laundering charges
Resigned chairman Khazaradze now involved in anti-government “civic movement”. Alleges prosecution “aims to stop construction of Anaklia Deep Sea Port”.