PM Kobakhidze: Georgia remains optimistic about resetting ties with US

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has said the government remains optimistic about rebuilding strategic relations with the United States, following what he described as constructive discussions with visiting American officials.

Speaking to journalists, Kobakhidze said all countries pursue policies based on their national interests and argued that it was natural for the current US administration to reassess its foreign relations, including its approach towards Russia.

"We have always said that every state acts according to its national interests," he said. "That is the nature of modern politics. Therefore, it is entirely logical that the new administration is reviewing its relationships, including with Russia."

The prime minister said recent international developments demonstrated the importance of a pragmatic approach to foreign policy.

Kobakhidze also commented on talks held during the recent visit of US representatives to Georgia, describing the discussions as "interesting" and "highly constructive".

While declining to disclose details of the meetings, he said the key requirement for improving bilateral relations was the establishment of what he called a fair and balanced approach.

According to the prime minister, relations between Tbilisi and Washington deteriorated during the previous US administration due to policies that he described as unfair towards the Georgian government.

Kobakhidze accused the former administration of supporting radicalism, political polarisation and actions that undermined state institutions, including encouraging opposition parties to boycott parliament following the 2020 and 2024 parliamentary elections.

He said he believed those approaches had now changed, providing grounds for optimism about the future of US-Georgian relations.

"Today we see that these approaches have changed, which gives us optimism that it will be possible to renew the strategic partnership from a clean slate with a specific roadmap," Kobakhidze said.

He added that the Georgian government's main proposal to Washington was the restoration of strategic cooperation on the basis of a clear framework and mutually respectful relations.