Georgian PM says ongoing communications boost optimism for renewed US-Georgia strategic partnership

Georgian prime minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Wednesday said that recent communications between Georgia and the United States have strengthened optimism about the possibility of renewing the strategic partnership between the two countries.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Kobakhidze noted that there have been multiple exchanges in recent months, which provide a basis for cautious optimism.

“We maintain this optimism and once again express our readiness to do everything possible to start from a clean slate, guided by a concrete roadmap. This is very important”, the prime minister said.

He emphasised that while a strategic partnership previously existed between Georgia and the United States, it lacked tangible outcomes. According to Kobakhidze, the partnership was largely formal and did not deliver concrete results in key areas such as the economy, trade, or politics.

“In reality, the previous strategic partnership existed only on paper. There were no tangible achievements - neither economically, nor in trade, nor politically. On the contrary, during that same period, the previous US administration was supporting revolutionary processes in Georgia”, he continued.

Kobakhidze stressed that Georgia is now seeking a “real” strategic partnership, one based on practical results and mutual interests. He highlighted the importance of developing a detailed roadmap that reflects the balanced interests of both countries.

“We want a genuine strategic partnership, which is why we say that discussions should begin from a clean slate and be guided by a concrete roadmap reflecting the interests of both sides. Politics is a pragmatic matter - there are two countries, each with its own interests, and these interests must be balanced and duly reflected in the renewed strategic partnership agreement. We are addressing this both publicly and behind closed doors. Once again, we maintain optimism that all this will be possible. This is very important for us, and we can reiterate this publicly”, he said.

Kobakhidze underlined that the renewal of the strategic partnership itself is the only clear benchmark for determining whether bilateral relations have entered a new phase.

“This should not be just another document on paper. It must be a partnership that delivers real, tangible results. We are fully focused on this goal and communicate it openly - both publicly and in private discussions with our American partners”, Kobakhidze said.

He concluded by reiterating Georgia’s commitment to achieving this objective, expressing hope that a renewed and meaningful strategic partnership with the United States will become a reality.