Georgian PM says “peaceful, correct, smart and pragmatic” policy basis for regaining Russian-occupied territories

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili on Tuesday expressed his belief the country must regain its Russian-occupied territories through a “peaceful, correct, smart and pragmatic” policy, in remarks over the 15th anniversary of the 2008 invasion of Georgia by Russia and the war between the two states.

In his remarks over the date, Garibashvili noted the “main challenge” was to end the occupation, and pointed out “the fact that Russia is the occupier and Russia was the aggressor, we have known this for a long time and we know it now, the entire world knows it”.

I just want to emphasise once again that we have developed a correct, peaceful policy that should lead our country to the deoccupation of our territories and the final reunification of the country”, Garibashvili said.

The Government head stressed there was “no alternative to peace” in the process.

Peace has no alternative. We must regain our territories through peace, with our correct, smart, pragmatic policy. I deeply believe it. We are getting closer to this great goal every day. Once again, I offer my condolences to you all on this great tragedy. May the memory of our heroes be bright, and I bow before our heroes”, he noted.

Garibashvili also stressed his Government was “doing everything” to maintain “peace and stability” in the country.

He also alleged “anti-national, traitorous policy of the people who are in the opposition”, in reference to the previous United National Movement Government, and accused them of intentions to “open a second front [of the ongoing war in Ukraine in Georgia]” and “think[ing] of nothing but their own, personal well-being”.

The Government head visited the Mukhatgverdi Brothers Cemetery  together with the members of the executive and legislative authorities.