Georgian FM: Gov’t’s decisions based on national interest, some oppose this approach

Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili on Wednesday said the Georgian Government was acting solely based on the country’s national interests, which serves as the guiding principle for all its decisions.

In her interview with Imedi TV, Botchorishvili noted that this approach has often required compromises, which have, in turn, been the basis for recent criticism and attacks against the Government.

“Acting strictly in line with our national interests has become unacceptable for certain forces. It’s simple - my national interest may not always align with the national interests of others, and that is where conflict arises. But in such conflicts, I am in the right, because I am defending Georgia’s national interests. This Government shapes its policies based on the country’s interests”, the FM said.

When asked about the future of Georgia-EU relations, particularly in light of some analysts and politicians suggesting that the EU might face confrontation with Russia by 2030, Botchorishvili noted that “from a geopolitical, historical, and identity perspective, EU association and integration hold a unique significance for us, and that will not change”.

“At the same time, we need to closely monitor how the EU itself evolves in response to current circumstances. History provides good examples of adaptation, change, and certain modifications, but such changes must align correctly with the challenges the EU faces today. Without a proper analysis of Europe’s current challenges, it will be difficult to make the right adjustments. We remain hopeful that European society will correctly assess these challenges, which will allow the EU’s policies to be modified and adjusted appropriately”, she concluded.