Investment Incentives Agreement: Adgur Ardzinba Joins Growing Criticism
Adgur Ardzinba, the head of the 'Abkhazian People's Movement' and a leader of the opposition political groups.
SUKHUM / AQW'A — Following the signing of a new Abkhazia-Russia agreement to offer incentives for Russian investors in Abkhazia, Adgur Ardzinba has spoken out, adding his voice to the growing debate. The agreement, signed by Abkhazia's Vice-Premier Kristina Ozgan and Russia’s Minister of Economic Development Maxim Reshetnikov, has stirred strong public opposition, with critics warning it could compromise Abkhazia’s economic independence.
Adgur Ardzinba has voiced his position regarding the recent agreement signed to provide incentives for foreign investors.
In his remarks, Ardzinba highlighted several concerns:
An investment agreement has ignited a storm of controversy and drawn sharp criticism across society. Intense debates are underway in the country’s Parliament, as the agreement has met with overwhelmingly negative reactions from experts.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Kristina Ozgan travelled to Moscow and signed the agreement, ignoring widespread public opposition. The level of disregard shown for the views of the nation is nothing short of shocking.
The strategy here is clear: by signing the agreement with Russian counterparts, the authorities intend to push for its ratification in Parliament, using potential sanctions as leverage to ensure approval.
This agreement, driven solely by the profit motives of select individuals, poses direct threats to local businesses and Abkhazia’s national banking system. Its terms serve the interests of everyone but the nation and its people.
The current administration’s dismissive approach to making decisions that are pivotal for the country’s future has become all too familiar. The government appears to overlook the will of the people, their representatives, public figures, and the intelligentsia.
Once again, we hope for the wisdom and resilience of Parliament’s deputies. We stand ready to support those who will not allow another anti-popular initiative to pass.
Earlier, Leuan Mikaa also commented on the agreement, challenging its legitimacy. “The signed agreement cannot be legitimate without prior parliamentary approval and the consent of the public,” Mikaa stated. “We are aware of the deception that took place in Parliament and understand that Aslan Bzhania is acting in the interests of oligarchs, putting our land and sovereignty at risk. This step has stripped Aslan Bzhania of any remaining legitimacy. Power belongs to the people, and the time has come to reclaim it.”
Despite these criticisms, Abkhazia’s Vice-Premier and Minister of Economy Kristina Ozgan defended the agreement, underscoring its importance in stabilising Abkhazia’s economy. Ozgan noted a marked increase in investment activity in recent years, sharing that investment in core assets has more than doubled over the past four years, surpassing 11 billion rubles ($110M). She added that average salaries, GDP, and budget revenue have all more than doubled alongside this growth. “We’re able to demonstrate a new approach by decreasing state investments and increasing private ones, which brings qualitative changes that this agreement will enhance,” she said, pointing to the anticipated positive impact of these large-scale projects on employment and the broader economy.