President Zurabishvili refuses to speak Russian with local Azeri population
President Zurabishvili stated that Georgian ethnic minorities should know the Georgian language as this will benefit them and the country. Photo: President’s press office.
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Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili has told the local Azerbaijani population in the Kvemo Kartli region of Georgia that she would not speak with them in Russian.
It is impossible, as it is not the language which unites us,” Zurabishvili stated, while sending warm wishes to the ethnic Azerbaijani people of the region on the occasion of Novruz, a traditional holiday which celebrates the coming of spring.
Lighting the traditional fire ???? to celebrate #Novruz in #Gardabani pic.twitter.com/MjTx9cGS9P
— Salome Zourabichvili (@Zourabichvili_S) March 20, 2019
Zurabishvili promised locals that she will study Azerbaijani words, but added that it is more important the Azerbaijani people who live in Georgia know the Georgian language.
The future of the young generation [of ethnic Azerbaijani people] and our common future is dependent on how we manage communication on the Georgian language. At the same time you should preserve your language, traditions, dances, songs,” Zurabishvili told the gathered crowds.
Visiting the #Gardabani market after spending an amazing #Novruz celebration with the great people of #KvemoKartli. pic.twitter.com/BaP5Pflyep
— Salome Zourabichvili (@Zourabichvili_S) March 20, 2019
Zurabishvili visited Gardabani district in Georgia’s eastern region of Kvemo Kartli yesterday.
During her visit she spoke about the importance of continuing traditions, and stated that tolerance is “one of the key values” of Georgian identity.