Georgian Parliament Vice Speaker slams domestic opposition for “distorted” interpretation of Ilham Aliyev’s remarks

Giorgi Kakhiani, the Vice Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, on Thursday criticised the domestic opposition for what he described as a distorted interpretation of recent remarks made by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, saying their assessments are taken out of context and misleading.

The controversy followed President Aliyev’s statement made in Davos, where he said that “transit will be ensured directly from Armenia through Azerbaijan”. The remark triggered speculation and criticism from opposition parties in Georgia.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Kakhiani said opposition figures attempted to frame Aliyev’s statement in a way that suggests Georgia is losing its role as a regional transit country.

“They tried to make statements and assessments as if Georgia is losing its functions as a transit country and so on. A proper debate would have made it possible for the public to see what the issue is really about”, he said.

Kakhiani stressed that the opposition’s reaction to Aliyev’s statement is “completely incomprehensible” and “entirely detached from the overall context”.

He emphasised that Armenia and Azerbaijan were in a state of war just a few years ago, a situation that had serious negative consequences for the entire region.

“When this reality changes, when peace is established and transit movement between these two countries becomes possible, of course this can only be welcomed. Overall, this means peace in the region, greater attractiveness for international investment, and more opportunities”, Kakhiani noted.

He stressed that regional stability and cooperation should be viewed as positive developments rather than grounds for political speculation.