**Georgian Opposition Leader Criticizes Government’s Response to Russia’s Offer**
The leader of the opposition coalition “Strong Georgia”, Grigol Gegelia, has spoken out against the government’s response to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s statement on the 3+3 regional platform.
Lavrov said that the format remains open to Georgia. However, Gegelia criticized the ruling Georgian Dream party for not explicitly rejecting the 3+3 platform despite Russia’s continued occupation of 20% of Georgian territory.
**Two Chairs Offered to Georgia**
Gegelia compared two possible options for Georgia: joining the European Union or participating in the Russian-Iranian format. He emphasized that taking the European seat would mean being part of a “civilized space” with peace, economic development, and rule of law. On the other hand, taking the Russian-Iranian chair would mean membership in a “space characterized by chaos, low development, and violence”.
**Government’s Response**
First Vice Speaker of Parliament Gia Volski commented on Lavrov’s statement, saying that Georgia currently sees no justification for joining the 3+3 format. However, he left the possibility open for the future.
**Calls for New Elections**
Gegelia accused the Georgian Dream government of “flirting” with Russia and failing to explicitly reject the 3+3 platform. He claimed that the government is carrying out a “Russian special operation in Georgia against the interests of the Georgian nation”. Gegelia called for new parliamentary elections and a new legitimate government to return the country to a space of prosperity, peace, and development.
**Read More**
Read More @ civil.ge
