Georgia Not Planning to Restore Diplomatic Relations with Russia, Kobakhidze Says

Georgia is not planning to negotiate with Russia regarding the restoration of diplomatic relations due to Moscow's recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia; however, it is open to discussing the deepening of economic and humanitarian cooperation. Irakli Kobakhidze, the Chairman of the ruling party 'Georgian Dream - Democratic Georgia,' made this statement.

“We have a clearly defined policy on these issues (regarding the restoration of diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation). There are red lines that are conditioned by unblocking and our integration with the West. Within the framework of those red lines, everything can be discussed, but we cannot talk about restoring diplomatic relations,” Kobakhidze stated.

At the same time, he added that Georgia is prepared to discuss the enhancement of trade, economic, and humanitarian relations with Russia. “As for trade, economic, and humanitarian issues, we have always had dialogue in that regard, and it can continue,” the Georgian official said.

Georgia severed diplomatic relations with Russia on September 2, 2008, following Russia's recognition of the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. At the time of the severance, the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it would maintain consular relations. Since March 2009, the Russian interests section has been operating at the Swiss embassy in Tbilisi, staffed by Russian diplomatic and technical personnel. Similarly, a Georgian interests section has been established at the Swiss embassy in Moscow.