Mayor Kaladze: Gov’t will take steps important for territorial integrity, including support for Abkhazia

Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze has defended the government's approach to the recent supply of fuel to the Russian-controlled Abkhazia, saying authorities will continue taking steps they consider important for Georgia's territorial integrity and future reunification.

"We will always take steps that are important for our country and the restoration of its territorial integrity," Kaladze said in response to a question about fuel supplied to Abkhazia by a private company in recent days.

Kaladze said all government measures in this area remained within the framework of Georgia's Law on Occupied Territories, stressing the importance of maintaining ties between people on both sides of the conflict.

"We will do everything to restore the country's territorial integrity and achieve coexistence with the Abkhaz people. Whether it is medical assistance, support concerning fuel or other important issues, we will always take steps that are important for our country," he said.

Kaladze also criticised the opposition, accusing it of making what he called "anti-state" statements and attempting to obstruct Georgia's efforts to restore its territorial integrity.

Asked specifically about the private company supplying fuel to Abkhazia, Kaladze said he did not have information about the company, arguing that businesses in Georgia were free to make decisions as long as they acted within the law.

"I don't have information about the specific company. All steps and decisions related to this issue are taken within the framework of existing legislation," he said.

Kaladze added that the government would continue supporting measures aimed at improving relations between Georgians and Abkhaz people while remaining within the legal framework.