The leader of “Georgian Dream” Bidzina Ivanishvilin, who came to power in Georgia, said that he intends to work on the re-establishment of relations between Georgia and Russia.
Director of European Studies Center of Georgian Foundation for Strategic and International Studies Kakha Gogolashvili told “First News and Analyses” that the relations between Georgia and Russia are particularly important in terms of the restoration of economic ties. The Russia does not accept Georgian products, which, according to the specialist, creates problems for the country’s economy. “The problem will not be solved, if there is no dialogue between the parties,” said Kakha Gogolashvili.
To the question whether there will be some changes between Georgia and Armenia by the re-establishment of relations with Russia the specialist said, “Armenia-Georgia relations are already on a good level. In principle there are no problems between the two sides. Improvement of relations between Russia and Georgia can have a positive impact on relations between Armenia and Georgia. It may be, for example, this kind of cooperation: Georgia- Armenia – Russia. ”
“Naturally, Azerbaijan, as our strategic partner, will remain in its place. Azerbaijan is very important for Georgia in the implementation of energetic projects.” he added.
As for the West’s position, the Center for European Studies believes that the West has always been happy for Russian-Georgian relations and contributed to it.
The assistant of the Former Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze on the foreign policy and national security affairs Archil Gegeshidze also believes that the re-establishment of Russian-Georgian relations is very important. “Relations with Russia are so diversified that it is possible to somehow move ahead. But it does not mean that diplomatic relations are to be restored, and that Russia should eliminate visa regime for Georgian citizens.”
Georgian political analyst Paata Zakareashvili agreead with the re-establishment and added that ties should be re-prioritized in humanitarian, economic, transport fields.
