Some outcomes of PM's visit to Armenia

There were several interesting issues discussed during Prime Minister Bidizna Ivanishvili’s recent visit to Armenia. The Georgian media has commented extensively about the PM’s statement that Armenia should be the example for Georgia’s foreign policy. According to this statement, Armenia manages to maintain good relations with the West and with Russia.

PM’s this position was criticized by the former ruling United National Movement (UNM). The party members noticed hints that Georgia is changing its foreign relations. The Georgian Dream however, denies this possibility.

On January 17, PM Ivanishivili mentioned in his interview with Armenian branch of Radio Liberty that in the near future, Georgia is not planning to change its foreign orientation, adding that it is possible to maintain good relations with Russia and NATO simultaneously. Pointing to Armenia as a good example of such relations, Ivanishvili said he would do his best to make this possible for Georgia as well.

Former PM and Secretary General of UNM Vano Merabishvili thinks that such a position is against Georgia’s interests. MP Davit Darchiahsvili stated that this is an alarming signal for the country.

Meanwhile Georgian Foreign Minister Maia Panjikidze said there is nothing scandalous or alarming in Ivanishvili’s statement, as it is normal for any country to try to keep good relations with everybody.

The Armenian way of maintaining their relationships is quite different from Georgian. Georgia declares that it wants to enter NATO whereas Armenia has not. Quite the contrary actually: Armenia has Russian military bases on its territory. In addition, Georgia was attacked by Russia, whereas Armenia received military assistance from Russia during its confrontation with Azerbaijan. Georgia has territories occupied by Russia, while Moscow assisted Armenia in occupying Azeri territories.

So whatever its true intentions, it would be very difficult for Georgia to maintain equal relations with the West and Russia; although, of course, the desire to have good relations with everybody must be welcomed.