(Tbilisi, August 27 2002, Civil Georgia) On 26 of August Parliament discussed the issue of annulations of contract with energy company “Itera”. The representatives of the “United Democrats”, “Traditionalists” and “Nationalist Movement” supported this proposal. They insisted on voting. Though, majority of Parliamentarians voted against.
NGO representatives met with the leader of “Nationalist Movement” Mikheil Saakashvili and suggested to rally together. Saakashvili promised full support to them.
At the same time, intensive work is carried out in the State Chancellery on elaboration of terms of contract. Recently, talks were held in Moscow where parties agreed on setting up the joint venture of the “Itera” and Georgian side in ten days. After contract is signed, the new company will control the whole gas grid in almost every part of Georgia.
President Shevardnadze stated at the news briefing on 26 of August that “our and their [Itera] interests coincide”.
On 15 of August, protocol was signed between “Itera” and Georgian government under which Russian energy company received control package of shares in “Tbilgazi” company, which distributes gas in Tbilisi and Rustavi chemical factory “Azoti” (Nitrogen).