Q: Given the state of the world, what is on your mind this August?
A: The good news is that Georgia has done remarkably well handling the pandemic and has a very deliberate, managed plan to open up its economy that is safe and productive. It started on July 1 as we put in place a strict regime reasserting our role as a regional transport hub, allowing truck transports to move in and out of the country. Based on our success combating COVID-19, the EU has recognized Georgia as a safe destination, so we are now moving to opening up international tourism. Our Parliament has also moved ahead briskly with implementing constitutional changes and electoral reforms to build a stronger democracy as we move into parliamentary elections in the fall. Of course, August is also a solemn month as we reflect on the August 2008 Russian invasion and the continuing threat Russia poses today.
Q: What does the 2008 invasion mean for most Georgians?
A: It was and remains a painful part of our recent history. To paraphrase your President Franklin Roosevelt, August 8, 2008 is a day that will live in infamy. Not only were precious lives lost and sovereign land occupied, the Russians are still here. That is perhaps the most painful part of it all. However, as a resilient people, we are not letting Russia’s acts of aggression hold us back. That is why we have forged ahead with our orientation to the West, seeking EU and NATO membership and bolstering our relations with the US. All of these strategic efforts are designed to do two things: integrate Georgia into the world economy and forge a united security alliance to stand up to continued Russian aggression.
Q: Have you received the support you need from allies and the US in particular?
A: Absolutely. An important statement by the US State Department commented forcefully on the 80 anniversary of the so-called “Welles Declaration” – a historic moment when the US refused to recognize Soviet annexation of occupied countries, including Georgia. That sentiment remains today, as the US refuses to recognize Russia’s belligerence and occupation of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali Region/South Ossetia. Secretary of State Pompeo underscored US support for our sovereignty in his recent call with Prime Minister Gakharia. As you know, Russia has engaged in cyber-attacks, taken aggressive steps in occupied lands, and undertaken an aggressive disinformation campaign to take advantage of the pandemic and spark instability.
Q: Are you optimistic or pessimistic about Georgia’s future?
A: I am very optimistic about Georgia right now. So far, we have weathered the pandemic and have in place an aggressive, future-focused economic plan. Our strategic alliances have never been stronger. With the constitutional changes that recently passed, we are on the path to the most free, fair and democratic elections the country has ever seen. Georgians are resilient people and have come together to show the world we are working to forge a better future.