Czech ambassador’s doubts over possible use of Georgian territory by Russia should be rechecked – opposition politician Gamkrelidze

The recent comments by the Czech ambassador that the import of goods from his country to Georgia had doubled this year and that the part of the goods could be sent to Russia, should be rechecked, the secretary general of the European Democrats party, Mamuka Gamkrelidze told Front News on Thursday. 

He said “it is of utmost importance” to prevent the use of Georgian territory by Russia on the background of its war against Ukraine and international sanctions. 

“Since the European Union has adopted a resolution that re-export and involvement of a third country has become as punishable as the direct delivery of sanctioned goods, it means that maximum caution is needed to prevent the use of the Georgian territory [by Russia]. 

“Since such a signal came from the Czech Republic, then they [the government] must see where this product was sold in Georgia. If it was not sold and disappeared, this is already a matter for special services. If someone wants to find out, it is very simple. It is the job of the authorities to look into such issues”, Gamkrelidze said. 

Responding to the comments of the MPs of the ruling Georgian Dream party that there would be a diplomatic response to the ambassador’s statement, Gamkrelidze noted “as a rule, the matter should not come to this”. 

“The ambassador of a friendly state made an assumption, he did not accuse anyone. Why is there a need for a diplomatic answer? This requires a reaction and verification, which is not a problem.