PM: Tougher Control over Social Events, Rituals to be Enforced in Georgia

Stricter control over social events and rituals must be adopted, especially indoors, Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia stated at a briefing following today’s meeting of the Interagency Coordination Council.

The Head of Government noted that only moderate additional requirements will apply to outdoor activities.

“The region of Adjara is a perfect example where, over the past few months, several large wedding receptions have been held, and the virus has been transmitted at several such social gatherings, which is why much tougher control over indoor social events will be introduced throughout the country. That applies to indoors, while relatively moderate restrictions will apply outdoors,” the Prime Minister emphasized.

In his words, the situation is fully under control.

“These are the key decisions we have made. Importantly, classes will resume, albeit remotely, in Batumi and Kobuleti on October 1, much like elsewhere. Equally important is the requirement for foreign visitors from the countries enjoying the reciprocity mechanism, previously without any requirements, to produce negative PCR test results taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. And, of course, we impose stricter requirements on indoor events. We are also cutting down the number of mandatory quarantine days. These are our key decisions. I believe it is enough for now. I emphasize that we must be alert, and we have always said that our main task is to be effective in managing the spread of the virus. Georgia cannot defeat the global pandemic on its own. We must ensure effective management and prepare our healthcare system to be able to conduct PCR tests in necessary numbers. Importantly, I reassure everyone that the situation is fully under control, and although we have opened many economic sectors, and we are about to start the new academic year throughout the country—and we will have an increase in infection cases—no risks will threaten the health of our citizens. We will see to that,” he underlined.

By Ana Dumbadze