“Georgia will not establish diplomatic or political relations with Russia unless it withdraws its troops from Georgia’s occupied territories and recognises the country’s territorial integrity. This is a red line,” declared Nikoloz Samkharadze, Chair of the Parliamentary Foreign Relations Committee.

Regarding trade, economic, and humanitarian relations, Samkharadze emphasised Georgia’s interest in expanding opportunities to engage with various countries.

“We hold a clear and unwavering stance: we will not have diplomatic or political relations with Russia unless it pulls out its troops from Georgia’s occupied territories and acknowledges Georgia’s territorial integrity. This has been, is, and will remain our position with the current government. This is a red line.

Concerning trade, economic, and humanitarian relations, it is in Georgia’s interest to diversify and broaden its trading partners. However, this does not exclude the possibility of not having diplomatic and political relations with Russia. Many countries are in confrontation with Russia, yet maintain both diplomatic and trade relations. To accuse us otherwise is hypocrisy, plain and simple,” he stated.

Samkharadze also addressed Georgia’s relations with China.

“Georgia does not align itself against anyone. We establish friendships with all countries to foster mutually beneficial relationships. China is a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a significant player in upholding principles of international law. Beyond trade and economic ties, China’s role in the UNSC is vital for Georgia, especially regarding issues of territorial integrity. For those criticising our efforts to develop relations with China, this is an important factor,” he said.

Additionally, he commented on Georgia’s relations with Iran.

“Not only our region but also Western countries currently maintain more active relations with Iran than Georgia does. At present, the U.S. and Iran are engaged in intensive negotiations over the nuclear program and the restoration of diplomatic ties,” Samkharadze said.

He emphasised Georgia’s sovereign right.

“A country claiming independence has the right to choose with whom it communicates. Our strategic foreign policy priorities are outlined in our Constitution. Beyond that, it is up to the Georgian Parliament and government to determine specific diplomatic directions,” Samkharadze concluded.