**New Chairman for Georgian Dream**
Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia’s ruling party, Georgian Dream, has been named as the new chairperson. This comes after Irakli Garibashvili announced on April 25 that he was stepping down from both the party and politics.
Kobakhidze praised Bidzina Ivanishvili, the billionaire founder and honorary chair of the party, for his role in maintaining peace and stability in Georgia since it regained independence. He thanked Garibashvili for his service to the party and country, particularly during the disputed 2024 parliamentary elections.
**Foreign Interference and Challenges**
In his remarks as party chair, Kobakhidze spoke about foreign interference and the challenges facing the world. He warned of “influential forces” that seek to undermine sovereignty, destabilize economies, and erode democratic values. He mentioned unspecified forces trying to:
* Make powerful states cede their sovereignty
* Destroy economies
* Trample on democracy and the rule of law
* Erase national and religious identity
* Fight against Christianity
* Use countries as bait for political interests
* Oppose morality and traditional values
**Party Objectives**
Kobakhidze reiterated Georgian Dream’s objectives, including:
* Strengthening the democratic system and the rule of law
* Enhancing Georgia’s independence and security
* Advancing economic development
* Reinforcing foreign policy positions and achieving EU membership
* Achieving better economic conditions for every Georgian family
**National Unity**
Kobakhidze emphasized the need for greater social cohesion, asserting that once radicals are removed from politics, Georgians will overcome hatred and unify their society. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to reuniting the Russian-occupied territories of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
**Updated Party Council**
The new chairperson also announced an updated list of 15 members of the party’s political council, most of whom are subject to international sanctions.
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