**Georgia Seeks New Chapter in US Partnership**
The Parliament Speaker of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili, has emphasized the country’s readiness to begin a new chapter in its strategic partnership with the United States. This statement was made during a meeting at the US State Department with Georgian First Vice Prime Minister Levan Davitashvili.
Papuashvili stressed that Georgia has consistently demonstrated itself as a reliable partner for the US in the region. “We are ready to show the new administration that we can start a new chapter in our strategic partnership,” she said. The goal, according to Papuashvili, is to move beyond empty words and forge a genuine partnership.
**A New Era of Cooperation?**
The current state of Georgian-American relations has been subject to scrutiny. During the Biden administration, Georgia received significant funding from the US, but this financial support was accompanied by allegations that American aid undermined Georgian democracy. Papuashvili criticized these practices, stating that they were akin to “fraudulent schemes” and not in line with a true strategic partnership.
Now, with the advent of a new US administration, Georgia is hoping for a fresh start. The country’s leaders believe they have much to offer their American counterparts. As Papuashvili noted, “We were and remain the most reliable partner of the US in the region.”
**The Sanctions Question**
Papuashvili also addressed the issue of sanctions imposed on Georgia by the US. Her response was clear: “What is arbitrary and unjust should not exist in nature.” In essence, she argued that these sanctions are a given fact that must be acknowledged and resolved. According to her, they contradict both international relations standards and basic human rights principles.
**Next Steps**
Regarding the selection of a new ambassador to the US, Papuashvili mentioned that the process is underway within her party. A candidate has been identified, but details remain confidential for now.
In summary, Georgia’s leaders are seeking to redefine their strategic partnership with the US on more solid grounds. They hope to start anew and leave behind the controversies of the past, focusing instead on a genuine friendship based on mutual respect and cooperation.
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