“Renewing strategic relations with the United States does not hinge on taking photographs or exchanging handshakes, but on taking tangible, concrete actions,” stated Lasha Parulava, a member of the United National Movement.

He emphasised that only through the realisation of these steps, namely, conducting fresh elections and freeing political prisoners, can Georgia’s relationship with the United States be genuinely restored.

“It is evident that new elections must be conducted, and political prisoners freed. This is precisely what the U.S. State Department conveyed to the Georgian Dream, quoting the Vice President’s guidance: that a democratic mandate cannot be attained through the persecution and imprisonment of opponents. This principle must be upheld; its realisation presents the opportunity to rebuild trust. Free and fair elections, along with the release of political opponents and prisoners, are essential steps that will genuinely aid in restoring confidence. Relations will only be reset if the Georgian Dream releases political prisoners, halts repression and terror, and commits to new, transparent elections. Only then can genuine progress be made in strengthening our ties,” Parulava concluded.