2018-02-02
"I believe it is about time to end the era of black jeeps in Georgia because it irritates everyone, including me, to be honest. It is a somewhat established practice, and when it comes to replacing the vehicle fleet, we should give up the black color.
It is time we switch to environment-friendly transport and replace automobiles, firstly, at the ministerial level, though that does not apply only to the Cabinet but to the representatives of the Government in general, including the law enforcements. There is no law stipulating that a law enforcement officer, for example, must use a black jeep. This process will start with the ministers and gradually spread everywhere. We cannot do it overnight, of course, as it requires significant financial resources, but we will start with the ministers and others will follow suit.
I spoke with the Head of the Special State Protection Service, and if protocol for hosting delegations requires it, we can allow exceptions. Any other excuse is out of the question, and I mean it.
I believe it is about time to end the era of black jeeps. International organizations employ white automobiles, and I doubt that other colors pose any threat in terms of safety.
This is why I reiterate that the inaugural step taken together at the Ministry of Interior was a tremendous gift from the Government of Japan. The whole Government must adopt the same standard, and give up black jeeps with tinted windows.
Prime Minister's Press Offcie