Georgian PM says strategic ties with US depend on deep state weakening

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday said the prospect of a “qualitative reboot” in relations between Georgia and the United States hinged on the weakening of the deep state.

In his interview with Rustavi 2 TV channel, Kobakhidze expressed his Government’s desire to renew the strategic partnership with the US “from a clean slate”.

“We have extended our hand, discussions have taken place, including with the US Ambassador to Georgia, and communication exists. We look forward with optimism to see what will happen. We can repeat what we’ve often said - a qualitative reboot in relations will depend on the defeat of the deep state”, the PM said.

He further referenced the US President Donald Trump’s remarks - “Either America will destroy the deep state, or the deep state will destroy America” - noting that this battle was ongoing.

“I don’t know if the deep state can be destroyed - we’re talking about a serious force. But the more it weakens, the higher the chances that Georgia and the US can achieve a real reboot in their relationship”, he continued.

Kobakhidze emphasised that his Government had publicly declared its readiness to renew the strategic partnership “from a clean slate”, underlining that past relations largely existed only “on paper”.