Georgian President says country pursues foreign policy based on national interests

Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili on Thursday said that the country was pursuing a foreign policy based on national interests, adding Georgia is an independent, sovereign and dignified state ready to engage with all countries on an equal footing.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Kavelashvili noted that the presidency had been brought back within the constitutional framework following his election, arguing his predecessor had chosen an “anti-state and unconstitutional” course.

“After I became President, the institution of the presidency was finally brought back within the constitutional framework. As you know, my predecessor chose a different path - one that was anti-state and unconstitutional. In terms of foreign policy, the President was sending one message while the executive branch was sending another. I believe society agrees this was not a normal process. Today, the balance between state institutions has been restored”, he said.

The President highlighted an increase in recent foreign visits by the President, Prime Minister and Parliament Speaker, as well as visits to Georgia by foreign leaders, saying this demonstrated the country’s foreign policy had become more clearly defined.

“We are pursuing a policy based on mutual trust and mutual benefit, shaped by our national interests. We pursue a foreign policy founded on national interests. We seek to clearly communicate our role and function to all of our partners. Historically, when the Georgian state was strong and successful, it followed the same approach. We do not threaten or attack anyone. We are focused on protecting our national interests. We are ready to build relations with every country on the basis of mutual trust, mutual respect and mutual benefit. Today, the state speaks with one voice, making it easier to present our positions”, Kavelashvili said.

He added Georgia had successfully withstood recent challenges.

“We are an independent, sovereign and dignified state, ready to conduct relations with every country on the basis of equality”, Kavelashvili concluded.