Georgia’s First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Levan Davitashvili, has strongly denounced the recent operation of Sokhumi Airport, labeling it a clear breach of international aviation norms and Georgian law.

“Georgia strongly condemns the operation of Sokhumi Airport in violation of international standards,” Davitashvili stated, emphasizing that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), with which Georgia maintains active cooperation, shares this position.

He noted that any flights conducted from Sokhumi Airport violate Georgia’s Law on Occupied Territories and pose serious safety concerns. “When safety standards cannot be assessed and inspected by our Civil Aviation Agency according to international norms, ICAO will not recognize such operations,” Davitashvili said. He acknowledged that sanctioned companies may be involved but stressed the limitations of Georgia’s direct control in such cases.

Addressing questions on whether Georgia has coordinated with Russian aviation authorities or considered retaliatory restrictions on Russian airlines flying into Georgian cities, Davitashvili reaffirmed Georgia’s commitment to lawful and principled diplomacy.

“There is no need for speculation,” he said. “The Georgian government and our Civil Aviation Agency clearly condemn these actions as violations of international conventions. Passenger safety demands rigorous inspection and compliance with ICAO standards. Companies acting in breach of our Law on Occupation are not permitted to operate in Georgia.”

He concluded by reiterating Georgia’s unwavering position on the status of Sokhumi and the broader region of Abkhazia: “This is occupied territory—unrecognized by Georgia and the international community. Russia is fully aware of our stance.”