“We consistently advocate for fact-based discussions, because the facts underpin our positions. When it comes to Russia, the fact remains that Georgia does not maintain diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation,” stated Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze in an interview with TRT WORLD.

The Prime Minister pointed out that only two countries in Georgia’s immediate neighbourhood have no diplomatic ties with Russia.

“These are Georgia and Ukraine. All other countries, including candidate nations such as Moldova, maintain diplomatic relations. Their politicians travel to the Russian Federation freely, without any obstacles, and Moldova, for example, is not criticised for such visits. Moldova remains a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), which operates under the Russian umbrella. No one criticises Moldova for this either.

If we examine trade figures, Russia’s share in Georgia’s trade is significantly lower compared to other countries regarded as pro-European. These are the facts; the rest are mere speculations. When it comes to diplomatic relations, overall interactions, trade, and the economy, the reality is essentially nonexistent. We have no communication.

Once again, Moldovan politicians, including the Deputy Minister, recently visited St Petersburg, where they went to negotiate with Gazprom. Such visits do not happen in Georgia. And again, there is simply no factual basis for any claims to the contrary,” said Irakli Kobakhidze.