Mikheil Sarjveladze: Several unfortunate decisions were made, which I don't think had any political implications, but in terms of scientific-research directions, they created a certain risk of turbulence

Mikheil Sarjveladze: Several unfortunate decisions were made, which I don’t think had any political implications or significant results. However, in terms of scientific-research directions, they created a certain risk of turbulence. The Minister of Health, Mikheil Sarjveladze, made this statement regarding the Lugar Laboratory, whose funding was cut off by the United States.

Sarjveladze hopes that in the near future, Georgia-U.S. relations will be regulated, and beneficial projects will be implemented.

"As you know, controversial decisions were made in 2024 regarding the funding of the Lugar Center. In reality, it was not just funding and support; these were projects that were not only interesting and beneficial for Georgia but also funded by various countries. Several unfortunate decisions were made, which I don’t think had any political implications or significant results, but in terms of scientific-research directions, they created a risk of turbulence. Fortunately, we managed to ensure that this risk did not materialize, and the system remained resilient in this regard and continued to perform its functions well. The center was able to continue fulfilling its duties without interruption and at a high level, and this will continue in the future. We took certain measures to ensure that this would not have a negative impact on the center's work. I am very hopeful that [this is now a global political issue], and that in the near future, the situation will be regulated very quickly, and everything will return to normal. I believe that beneficial projects for Georgia, and not only Georgia, will continue actively. These projects are ongoing today and will continue in the future. We will be pleased if our friendly states participate in their development and improvement, and have the opportunity to benefit from this good work as well," Sarjveladze stated.

For reference, according to Mikheil Sarjveladze, the U.S. has ceased providing approximately 2 million GEL in aid to the National Center for Disease Control and Public Health.