AMCHAM Says “political blackmail” Led to Flights Termination from Georgia

(Tbilisi, May 22, Civil Georgia) The American Chamber of Commerce issued a press release today protesting termination of the flights of the British Mediterranean Airlines and Turkish Airways in Georgia. The release says “political blackmailing” led to cancellation of flights.

Full text of the release follows:

“The American Chamber of Commerce in Georgia calls upon the President of Georgia and the Parliament of Georgia to take immediate action to halt the ‘political blackmail’ that has led to the cessation of Turkish and British Airlines flights to and from Georgia.

It is the opinion of the Chamber that the Parliamentary Resolution of February 27 2003, which led to the invalidation of the Turkish and British Airlines licenses, is a clear instance of how private interests are allowed to supersede those of the overall development and well being of the country.

The cessation of Turkish and British Airlines flights to and from Georgia has only served to deteriorate further the business and investment climate in Georgia; damage Georgia’s credibility with international visitors, business persons and serious potential investors; and cripple on-going international and Georgian business operations that require regular travel from and to Georgia.

It is the view of the Chamber that legitimate claims by the Government of Georgia against either Turkish and/or British Airlines should be handled in accordance with international business codes of conduct and practice within the appropriate juridical bodies.”