Expected threats against Georgia from its northern neighbour Russia are overstated, believes Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili.
Speaking to Georgian Public Broadcaster (GPB) last night, the Premier addressed local political parties and experts and urged them not to exacerbate the problem or incite unnecessary worry.
"I think excessive talking about possible threats from Russia is wrong. We have already identified potential threats as theoretical. We have had enough tension for nine years [where the] former Government was in permanent hysterics and constant radicalism,” Garibashvili announced.
He said Russia has less leverage to pressure Georgia than Ukraine.
"In this situation there is no time for emotions. We need to think with our minds and have a pragmatic approach with a bit of wisdom.
"Of course dangers exist but we should not be reassessed. The 2008 situation already happened [which resulted in] Russia's recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, "the Primer said.
An economic embargo did not present a vital threat from Russia, Garibashvili said.
"I don’t think Russia will impose a trade embargo on Georgian products. Even if this is judged theoretically and we assume it happens, this will not have the same negative effect as it did in 2006. Now we are prepared. We have already adopted various markets and works on this direction are continuing,” he added.