US Ambassador bids farewell, reaffirms support for Georgia’s western path

The outgoing United States Ambassador to Georgia, Robin Dunnigan, on Tuesday delivered an emotional farewell message, reaffirming the “enduring ties” between the American and Georgian people and expressing support for Georgia’s Western aspirations.

“In my 33-year diplomatic career, I have never met a more warm, hospitable, and generous people than the Georgians around the world,” said Dunnigan in a video address. “I know that the special bond between the American and Georgian people is unbreakable, and I know that Georgia’s place is in the family of Western democracies.”

Dunnigan, who announced her resignation on 5 June citing personal reasons, reflected on her time in Georgia with deep affection. She thanked Georgians for their “heartfelt toasts, delicious meals, magnificent polyphonic singing, and unique culture,” and spoke of travels across the country - from the highlands of Svaneti to the wine region of Kakheti.

“We have been welcomed like family,” she said. “I leave a piece of my heart in Georgia, and I will forever be a true Georgian friend.”

Her departure comes at a time of heightened political tensions between the West and the Georgian government over concerns related to democratic backsliding. “Working together, I know that we can create a better future for our children,” she added.