Georgia's PM reaffirms commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with US

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze recently met with US Deputy Secretary of State for Civil Security, Democracy, and Human Rights Uzra Zeya.

Discussions at the meeting reportedly centred on the longstanding strategic partnership between the US and Georgia, highlighting successful cooperation across various sectors over the years despite recent challenges, Caliber.Az reports citing Georgian media.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed Georgia's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of pragmatic, rational, and fair approaches in this endeavour.

"The upcoming parliamentary elections and the current pre-election environment in the country were among the topics addressed," the Prime Minister's press service stated. "Prime Minister Kobakhidze stressed that the government is dedicated to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections, maintaining a pluralistic electoral environment that aligns with international standards."

However, during her visit, Uzra Zeya conveyed that the United States has decided to freeze aid to Georgia in response to the indefinite postponement of the Noble Partner 2024 military exercise.

"The US has suspended aid to Georgia, and the country's integration into the European Union has been put on hold," Zeya stated, expressing US concerns over what she described as anti-democratic actions by Georgian authorities. She highlighted concerns over disinformation being propagated by certain members of the ruling party, which she believes undermines Georgia's Euro-Atlantic aspirations.

"The United States remains deeply concerned about these developments," Zeya concluded.