Georgian PM slams US embassy statement, reiterates call to restore strategic partnership

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has criticised a recent statement by the US Embassy in Tbilisi, describing it as "completely incomprehensible" and accusing the previous US administration of contributing to political polarisation in Georgia.

Speaking to journalists on Monday, Kobakhidze said he did not understand the embassy's position, particularly given what he described as its role under the previous US administration.

"The US Embassy's statement is completely incomprehensible to me, especially considering that under the previous administration it was one of the main actors attempting to artificially fuel hatred and spread falsehoods in Georgia," he said.

Kobakhidze added that preventing the spread of hatred within Georgian society remained the government's responsibility.

"We must do everything possible to ensure that hatred is not allowed to spread in Georgian society," he said.

Despite his criticism, the prime minister said the Georgian government remained committed to improving relations with Washington.

"We remain in a waiting mode and continue to be optimistic. Our goal is to restore the strategic partnership, and we will patiently await a reciprocal position from the American side," Kobakhidze said.