Georgia’s PM stresses importance of “choosing peace over war” ahead of elections

The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, on Friday emphasized the “critical need” for society to understand the stark contrast between war and peace, urging the public to make the right choice as the country approaches parliamentary elections. In a recent statement, Kobakhidze warned of the dire consequences of war, citing the current situation in Ukraine as an example of what Georgia has managed to avoid through careful decision-making in recent years.

“The comparison of war and peace is fundamental for society to make the right choice,” said Kobakhidze, underscoring that what is shown in images of war is something to be avoided at all costs. He reminded the public of the potential fate Georgia could have faced in 2022 and 2023 if different decisions had been made and cautioned that similar risks could arise if the upcoming parliamentary elections result in unfavorable outcomes. “In 2022-23, our country was expected to share the same fate if we did not take the right steps,” he said, alluding to the dangers posed by external forces.

Kobakhidze criticized the romanticized portrayal of the war in Ukraine by some Georgian media, political parties, and NGOs, arguing that such narratives could push Georgia closer to conflict. “Your televisions, your political parties, your NGOs present what is happening in Ukraine in a romantic way, which is categorically unacceptable,” he remarked, accusing these groups of attempting to normalize the idea of war in the minds of the Georgian public.

While refraining from commenting on recent statements made by Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Prime Minister reiterated that Georgia should resist the influence of those who may seek to implement a “Ukrainian scenario” within the country. He concluded by reaffirming the need for vigilance and caution in the face of ongoing challenges.