Georgian PM: criticism of economic ties with China “double standard”
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday said China was a “significant” trade partner for both the European Union and the United States, and called criticism of Georgia’s deepening economic relations with the country a “double standard”. Photo: Gov't Administration
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Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday said China was a “significant” trade partner for both the European Union and the United States, and called criticism of Georgia’s deepening economic relations with the country a “double standard”.
We find double standards absolutely unacceptable. Fair evaluations are essential for healthy relationships. Unfortunately, we often receive unfair assessments regarding our state’s actions. Our steps serve our country’s national interests and we will continue to act in the same direction in the future. Double standards and injustice hinder the improvement of relations with our partners”, he said.
In comments to the media in Berlin, where he attended an annual conference of Georgian ambassadors, Kobakhidze also expressed hope for a “positive contribution” from the US Ambassador to the country for enhancing ties.
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday said despite “some difficulties”, the “main priority” of his Government was the country’s full membership of the European Union.
Georgian Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili on Tuesday met a Chinese delegation headed by Chen Zhou, the Vice Minister of the International Department of the Central Committee of the ruling party of China, to discuss “high dynamics” and “close” partnership in the bilateral relations between the two countries.
Rati Ionatamishvili, the Chair of the Human Rights Protection and Civil Integration Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, on Wednesday underscored the significance of the Anaklia port project in the country’s north-west, claiming its development held “crucial importance” not only for the wider region but also for facilitating a corridor connecting Europe and Asia.
Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang on Friday “sincerely” congratulated his Georgian counterpart Irakli Kobakhidze on his confirmation as Georgia’s new PM, expressing readiness to work with the new Head of the Government for “further development” of bilateral ties “through joint efforts”.