In Georgia, a large rally will take place on Wednesday January 1 in front of Parliament. Opponents of the pro-Russian regime in power are calling for a new mobilization. Already two months of protest which also weighs on the economic sector and particularly on tourism.
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With our special correspondent in Tbilisi, Julien Chavanne
Meriko Gubeladze welcomes us to her restaurant in Tbilisi. On the plate, she offers revisited Georgian cuisine. But inside, most of the tables are unoccupied. “ With what’s happening right now, we’re struggling to survive “, she explains.
The political crisis and the anti-Western positions of those in power are driving away foreign tourists. “ Normally, we should be full during the holidays. But this year, we have 70% fewer customers… », notes the restaurateur. Meriko is still able to pay the employees of her three restaurants. But for how long? This whole sector is vital for the Georgiawhich is threatened.
Tamuna Tandachvili works for tourism companies. She explains that “ in two weeks, almost 5 million lari (i.e. 1.7 million euros) were lost. Cancellations for next year have increased from 30% to 85%. »
“ A difficult time awaits us »
Investors and partners are also taking off. Iva Chkonia is an opposition MP. It represents SMEs in distribution.
“ A difficult period awaits us because we will no longer have the Western aid that the country received until now “, he warns. “ This represents a billion euros, it is essential for the stability of the country and that of our currency. »
More than 600 companies, large groups like McDonald’s or Spar, have already taken a position to call for new elections.
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