Business Association of Georgia Discussing the Prospects of Collaboration with the Ministry of Healthcare of Georgia

19 Nov '10

On November 18, members of the Business Association met the Minister of Labour, Health and Social Protection of Georgia, Mr. Andria Urushadze. The meeting aimed at raising awareness on the ongoing reforms in healthcare and obtaining information on investing in this sector. As stated by the President of the Association, Mr. George Chirakadze, business is attracted by privatization of hospital sector - "Investments can be made in this sector. Large investments are made in this business worldwide and it should apply to Georgia as well. I hope that our cooperation will be as beneficial and as open as possible."
In discussions with businessmen the Healthcare Minister emphasized the importance of attractions of private investments in this sector. Moreover, privatization of hospital sector creates additional opportunities for business to invest in related services, "We constantly hear from both Georgian and foreign businessmen about their interest in healthcare sector. Healthcare is the area where large investments are made in foreign countries. Today there is a big chance that businessmen start investing in the Georgian healthcare system. Major reforms are implemented in healthcare, such as privatization of hospital sector. We believe that significant cooperation with begin between business and our Ministry and investments will be implemented", - added Mr. Urushadze.
Agenda of the meeting also covered the activity of trilateral dialogue commission set up with participation of ILO, Healthcare Ministry and Employers and the labour legislation related issues. Chairman of BAG's Labour and Employment Committee, Mr. Lasha Akhaladze spoke about the Association's role and pro-activeness in the above Commission.
During second part of the meeting attendees heard the report of special guest, Chairman of the BAG Advisory Board, Mr. Roy Southworth. In his report Mr. Southworth overviewed Georgia's domestic and foreign political situation. Focus was made on country's economic processes, inflow of foreign direct investments and measures towards improvement of business climate.