PM Comments on Privatization of Gas Pipeline

Georgian Prime Minister Zurab Nogaideli did not rule out a possible privatization of Georgia?s gas pipeline system, but added that the government has no plans to consider this issue ?in the near future.? 
 
?We have not discussed this issue [at the government session] and do not intend to discuss it in the near future,? Nogaideli said at a news briefing after a governmental session on February 23.

In an interview with the Italian newspaper La Stampa published on February 20, Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili said that talks are underway with the Russian energy giant Gazprom over privatization of Georgia?s gas pipeline system.
 
State Minister for Economic Reform Issues Kakha Bendukidze said on February 22 that privatization of the gas pipeline system poses no threat to Georgia?s energy security.