PM Kobakhidze appoints Giorgi Zurabashvili as special representative for Russia ties

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has appointed Giorgi Zurabashvili as his special representative for relations with Russia, while allowing him to retain his position as first deputy foreign minister.

Kobakhidze announced the appointment at a briefing at the Government Administration on Wednesday, describing the peaceful resolution of the conflict with Russia, the preservation and development of existing trade and economic ties, and continued dialogue on humanitarian issues as key priorities for Georgia.

“Given the absence of diplomatic relations between Georgia and the Russian Federation, the position of the Prime Minister’s special representative, alongside the Geneva format, is of key importance in addressing these tasks,” Kobakhidze said.

He described Zurabashvili as a highly experienced diplomat who had held several senior positions in public service, including director of various departments at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary.

Zurabashvili was appointed deputy foreign minister in 2024 and became first deputy foreign minister on 1 July 2025.

“We are confident that Giorgi Zurabashvili, with his knowledge and experience, will successfully fulfil the responsibilities assigned to the Prime Minister’s special representative,” Kobakhidze said.