Garibashvili: none of foreign states imposed sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Georgia, even former Georgian gov’t

None of foreign states imposed sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Georgia back in 2008, even the former United National Movement government of Georgia, Georgian PM Irakli Garibashvili stated after his meeting with Polish PM  Mateusz Morawiecki in Batumi earlier today.

 

Garibashvili stated that a loyal attitude to Russia both by the international community and the former Georgian government has led to the continued occupation of Georgian regions  and the creeping occupation of the country’s territories.

 

He recalled the late Polish President Lech Kaczyński ‘who was loud to tell the West to make bold decisions on Georgia’s European integration.’

 

“We have seen a renewed policy towards Russia since the August war, new trade and economic projects, and no sanctions, unfortunately. Moreover, even our former government refused to  impose sanctions on Russia, only diplomatic relations were severed. After the war, the UNM authorities sold strategic energy facilities to Russian companies,  lifted the visa regime for Russian citizens unilaterally and supported Russia’s membership to the World Trade Organization,” Garibashvili stated.

 

He said that the Georgia people are ‘well aware’ of ongoing tragic events in Ukraine.

 

“We have ensured all necessary support for Ukraine in all intonational platforms and are active to provide humanitarian aid. War crimes in Ukraine must  be investigated. So, our position is absolutely clear and understandable. We stand by Ukraine. I would like to reiterate my support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We have a long history of friendship and will continue to stand in solidarity with Ukraine, and will continue to support the country. Our common desire is the war to be ended,” Garibashvili said.

 

Garibashvili stated  that Poland is a strong supporter of Georgia’s European integration and ‘I have heard from the PM that Georgia will receive genuine support from the country on the path.”

 

The Polish PM said that the Russian aggression in Ukraine is a war “against common values,” and noted that further sanctions should be imposed on the country.

 

The Polish government said that Russian aggression in Ukraine, Georgia’s engagement in the enforcement of international sanctions against Russia and Georgia’s EU integration prospects would have been discussed by the two PMs.