Georgian Elections on October 31: Borders Will Remain Closed Until Then, Says Simonian

Georgian parliamentary elections are set for October 31, and the borders will not be opened until after that date. This statement was made today, September 4, by Armenia's National Assembly Vice President Alen Simonian during a conversation with protesters outside the parliament expressing their desire to travel to Russia.

According to Simonian, if Georgia allows even one tourist to enter or one individual to transit through its territory to Russia, they would face complications as that person would need to use facilities, eat, and interact with others during their journey.

Regarding air travel to Russia, Simonian mentioned, “Russia says there is an epidemic on our side, and if I accept people from Armenia, how can I explain to others that I won’t accept them? For instance, if you want to go to Egypt, which is open, that’s the issue of the receiving country. Don’t believe anyone who tells you that this issue will be resolved soon. We negotiate every day on this matter, attempting to resume flights—not just for you, but for people to come, engage in trade, and bring money into the country. Hotels are empty. Russians and Georgians are not allowing anyone to enter their countries.”