Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili emphasized the need for a “positive third force” in the country’s political landscape. She welcomed the readiness expressed by two opposition figures Mamuka Khazaradze and Giorgi Gakharia to cooperate. She invited their political parties to the Orbeliani Palace for the final round of negotiations, urging immediate action.
“Georgians will be making a critical decision that will define the future of the country—whether we move towards Europe or remain under Russian influence. October 26 is not just another election day; it is a referendum. The choice is clear: Europe or Russia. This country has never been, and will never be, surrendered to anyone,” she said.
The President also noted the formation of a charter and a roadmap for Georgia’s return to Europe, underlining her personal responsibility in the process. She called for a simplified choice for opposition voters, proposing a “positive third center” to engage undecided citizens and create momentum for broader societal mobilization.
Zurabishvili praised Khazaradze’s public declaration of readiness for collaboration and acknowledged that Giorgi Gakharia was also prepared to engage. She expressed hope that both pro-European forces—Khazaradze’s Strong Georgia and Gakharia’s For Georgia—would take decisive steps to provide voters with clarity and a sense of strength during this pivotal period.
“I am ready, as a neutral party, to facilitate this process,” Zurabishvili said, inviting two opposition parties to her palace.
