Georgia’s position on Ukraine remains unchanged, Mayor Kaladze

Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze has said Georgia’s position on Ukraine remained unchanged, following recent high-level contacts between the two countries.

Speaking to journalists, Kaladze said the Georgian authorities continued to support the Ukrainian people and wish for peace in Ukraine.

“We have not changed our position in any way,” he said. “We remain in the same position regarding Ukraine. We support the Ukrainian people and have repeatedly stated that we share friendly relations.”

Kaladze described the war in Ukraine as a tragedy that has brought “enormous suffering”, including territorial losses, military and civilian deaths, and widespread destruction of infrastructure.

“It is all extremely difficult, and I wish for peace for Ukraine,” he said.

The mayor added that politicians were elected to pursue policies aimed at protecting their countries and citizens from threats.

“We must take steps that, first of all, protect the interests of the country and the people,” Kaladze said. “Everything must be done in a way that allows the country to move forward and develop.”

Referring to recent diplomatic contacts, Kaladze said Volodymyr Zelenskyy approached Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze during an EPC Summit in Yerevan and discussed several issues with him.

“When President Zelenskyy approached the Georgian prime minister, he had certain matters to discuss, and naturally the prime minister listened. That is diplomacy,” Kaladze said.

He added that if necessary, details of the discussions between the leaders could later be made public by either side.