PM Kobakhidze: outgoing German ambassador did ‘everything’ to damage bilateral ties

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has accused outgoing German Ambassador Peter Fischer of undermining relations between Georgia and Germany, saying the envoy had done “everything” to damage bilateral ties.

Speaking on Tuesday, Kobakhidze contrasted Fischer's tenure with what he described as decades of close cooperation between Georgia and Germany.

“Traditionally, Georgia and Germany have enjoyed a special relationship. Germany played a very important role, especially in the early 1990s, when our country was going through a very difficult period, and it stood by Georgia. That cooperation continued for many years,” the prime minister said.

Kobakhidze alleged that Fischer had been the only German ambassador who had failed to strengthen the relationship.

“Mr. Fischer was the only ambassador who not only did nothing to develop these relations, but did everything to damage relations between Georgia and the Federal Republic of Germany,” he said.

Calling the situation “very unfortunate,” the prime minister said Georgia hopes bilateral relations will improve.

“We hope all of this will change. It is very important for our country,” Kobakhidze said.

The prime minister reiterated that Georgia remains grateful for Germany's longstanding support, particularly during the country's early years of independence.

“We are grateful to Germany for its significant support over many years and have a strong desire to restore the friendly relations we had become accustomed to,” he said.

Kobakhidze added that he hopes the recent deterioration in relations will be reversed.

“Unfortunately, Mr. Fischer caused significant damage to these relations, and we hope that this will change,” he said.