On October 22, Garry Delba, the new Advisor to the de-facto President of the separatist Abkhazia on the Development of Financial Structures, stated that the opening of branches of Russian banks in Abkhazia will not result in their dominance. 

During his statement, Delba compared the current situation to the Russian market 30 years ago, when the financial sector was largely closed to foreign investments. He noted that when foreign banks entered the Russian banking services market, there were initial fears about the suppression of domestic banks. "However, this did not happen, nor will it happen in our country. Although foreign banks brought new technologies and ideas, they did not dominate the Russian market. Local businesses always have advantages in their own country, understanding the local economy better and having strong ties with various organizations and structures," Delba stated during an appearance on Abkhazian television.

Delba emphasized that there is no need for Abkhazia to fear competition, as local entrepreneurs are equally competent and capable compared to their foreign counterparts, Apsnypress reported. He urged openness and competition, believing it would foster development and strengthen local businesses.

Citing the successful experience of Abkhazian telecommunication companies, Delba pointed out that with direct investments from Russia, these companies quickly adopted modern technologies, integrated into the national economy, and became fully Abkhazian in terms of top management and employees at all levels.