“The new U.S. administration and embassy are actively engaged in communication. We will always prioritize protecting the interests of the state. While we welcome the increased engagement, everyone should remember that this country has a Prime Minister and a Foreign Minister with whom direct communication should take place, rather than through unofficial channels or behind the scenes,” Irakli Zarkua, a member of the parliamentary majority, stated.

The GD member remarked on the statement issued by the U.S. Embassy, indicating that, at the request of Secretary of State Rubio, Ambassador Dunnigan sought a meeting with Bidzina Ivanishvili on May 22. However, Ivanishvili declined to meet with the Ambassador.

According to Zarkua, the ruling team has never declined to meet with the Ambassador, emphasizing that proper protocol should always be observed.

“They have previously attempted to communicate through unclear and unconventional methods. This country has a legitimate government, including the Prime Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and if the Ambassador wishes to convey a message or deliver a letter, she should do so through the appropriate official channels. We ask that they avoid complicating diplomatic relations. The ruling team has never refused to meet with the Ambassador; however, proper protocol must be observed. The Prime Minister has repeatedly expressed his readiness to start relations anew. We remain optimistic and hopeful that effective communication will be established. Past policies under the previous administration led to strained relations, but we are committed to putting these relations on a positive track and starting fresh,” he said.