“Bidzina Ivanishvili was unwilling to hold any type of meeting with foreigners under blackmail. Now that certain circumstances have changed, he is ready to hold such meetings, and the U.S. Ambassador has expressed similar readiness, which is very positive,” Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze told journalists.

According to the Prime Minister, this meeting will significantly contribute to resetting relations between Georgia and the United States.

“There was ongoing blackmail against Mr. Bidzina Ivanishvili. As soon as the war in Ukraine began, his funds were frozen in his accounts, transfers were suspended, and for absolutely objective reasons, he did not wish to hold meetings in this context. These processes continued for two years, and this is precisely why Bidzina Ivanishvili refrained from meetings. He did not want to hold any type of meeting with foreigners under blackmail. Now that certain circumstances have changed, he is ready to hold such a meeting, and the US Ambassador has expressed similar readiness, which is very positive. This meeting will significantly contribute to resetting relations between Georgia and the United States,” stated the Prime Minister.