Georgian PM says Mamuka Mdinaradze deserves ‘nothing but gratitude’ after political exit

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday thanked Mamuka Mdinaradze for his “important work”, service to the country and contribution to the Georgian Dream team, saying his decade-long political career had helped advance Georgia’s development and strengthen the ruling party.

Kobakhidze’s comments came after Mdinaradze resigned as Georgia’s Minister of Regional Development and announced his departure from politics.

Mdinaradze revealed his decision during a briefing on Thursday, describing his ten years in politics as a period defined by hard work, loyalty to the country and a commitment to serving Georgia alongside his colleagues.

Responding to the announcement, Kobakhidze said Mdinaradze deserved “nothing but gratitude” and expressed regret over his decision to step down.

The Prime Minister noted that the ruling team had also consulted with Bidzina Ivanishvili, adding that efforts had been made to persuade Mdinaradze to reconsider, but he had already made up his mind.

“I want to thank Mamuka Mdinaradze for the important work he has carried out, his service to the country and his contribution to our team. Over the past ten years, he has accomplished a great deal, contributing both to the country’s development and to the strengthening of our team. Therefore, he deserves nothing but our gratitude”, Kobakhidze said.

“We are sorry about the decision he has made. We met yesterday and again today, and we also held consultations with Bidzina Ivanishvili. This was his decision. We tried to convince him to make a different one, but he had already taken a firm position. Once again, I would like to thank Mamuka Mdinaradze for everything he has done. He has made a significant contribution both to the country and to our team”, he concluded.