“Functioning democracy requires political opposition that interacts with state institutions to represent interests of citizens who voted for them” - US Embassy in Georgia publishes State Department Delegation statement

Following a series of meetings with Georgian Government officials and opposition leaders between May 25 and 28, the US State Department delegation has issued an official statement, published by the US Embassy in Georgia.

The statement outlines the Trump administration’s readiness to initiate a new chapter in bilateral relations and details the focus of the discussions.

“A US delegation met with Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Vice Prime Ministers Botchorishvili and Mdinaradze, and other government officials to discuss a future path forward to improve bilateral relations. The delegation shared the Trump administration’s readiness to engage in a constructive, forward-looking relationship with the Government of Georgia, and its interest in starting a new phase in bilateral relations between sovereign partners based on mutual respect, shared interests, and honest dialogue”, the State Department said.

The statement noted that the sides discussed areas of potential alignment between the United States and Georgia, including a shared commitment to national sovereignty, a fair economic environment, resilience to harmful foreign influences, and the fundamental values that define both nations.

“This alignment provides a solid foundation for moving forward toward a deeper partnership”, the statement said.

“The US delegation emphasised our interest in expanding commercial cooperation with Georgia, including, ensuring broader access for American goods and investments, and deepening cooperation in the fields of security and energy. A sustainable strategic partnership will require continuous progress by ensuring the conditions that make Georgia a reliable partner, including a business environment favorable to American businesses and a stable domestic political climate that encourages opposition engagement. The delegation discussed specific steps the Georgian government can take to help us achieve this goal. The United States looks forward to working with the Government of Georgia toward a partnership that brings tangible benefits to both countries and fully unlocks the potential of bilateral relations”, the Department said.

The statement further reviewed meetings with leaders of Georgian opposition parties.

“The US delegation held in-depth conversations with representatives of Georgia's main opposition parties, including the United National Movement, the Coalition for Change, Strong Georgia - Lelo, and the Gakharia For Georgia party. The delegation listened to concerns regarding the treatment of opposition parties since October 2024, including the ongoing case in the Constitutional Court and the current political environment. The delegation shared the position of the United States regarding opposition participation in Georgia’s democratic institutions. A functioning democracy requires a political opposition that interacts with state institutions to represent the interests of the citizens who voted for them. Political stability and genuine representation of the opposition are among the factors that make Georgia a reliable partner for American investment, security cooperation, and long-term strategic partnership. The United States remains committed to constructive relations with all serious political actors interested in their country's stability, sovereignty, and prosperity”, the statement concluded.