Georgian Parliament official: when Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders visit Iran, it is seen as peace effort, but Georgia’s President faces different standards

Rati Ionatamishvili, the Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights Protection and Civil Integration, on Friday accused domestic opposition figures of applying double standards in their criticism of President Mikheil Kavelashvili over his visit to Iran to attend the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Ionatamishvili responded to criticism directed at the President, arguing that similar visits by regional leaders have been viewed differently by critics.

“We are witnessing a classic example of double standards. When the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan travel to Iran, it is assessed as a step that promotes peace in our region. However, when the President of Georgia goes there, it is judged in the opposite way”, the official said.

The lawmaker claimed that critics of the visit are inconsistent in their assessments and are attempting to damage Georgia’s international image. He also referred to comments made by US Congressman Joe Wilson, alleging that opposition groups use such statements to shape their political agenda.

“These individuals are willing to do anything to harm the image of our country”, Ionatamishvili stated.

He further pointed to recent diplomatic developments involving Armenia, noting that European Commissioners had recently visited Yerevan. He also recalled that Iran had previously thanked Armenia for its support, yet this had not prevented Armenian officials from maintaining engagement with Tehran.

“Our opposition did not focus on that either. This once again demonstrates their double standards and their true intentions. In reality, they are interested neither in our country nor in peace. On the contrary, they are afraid of peace and do not want to see security maintained at a high standard in Georgia”, he concluded.