During a visit by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg to Tbilisi, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze asserted that Georgia remains an independent state and that no external power can dictate terms to it. Addressing reporters, Kobakhidze was asked whether the North Atlantic Alliance had issued any instructions to Georgia concerning its elections. He responded clearly that Georgia operates on its own sovereign basis, insisting that no outside entity can give it directions.
Stoltenberg, who had already traveled to the region, underscored in his briefing that Georgia holds a significant place in the alliance’s plans. He traveled to Tbilisi from Baku and spoke to journalists after a meeting with the Georgian prime minister. The exchange, framed by the alliance’s outreach, highlighted the depth of cooperation between Georgia and NATO, even as the country charts its own democratic and political trajectory.
Officials pointed out that such collaboration is aimed at reinforcing democratic processes and broader integration. They noted that advancing Georgia’s cooperation with NATO is seen not only as a security imperative but also as a catalyst for reforms that support prosperity and resilience in the country. In this context, the Georgian leadership emphasized that any prospect of formal candidate status with NATO would be aligned with the country’s own aspirations and governance standards, strengthening the collective will toward economic growth and regional stability.
Earlier, comments in the Kremlin addressed Stoltenberg’s trip through Transcaucasia, reflecting the region’s complex geopolitical dynamics. The dialogue between Georgian authorities and NATO remains a focal point of Western security discussions in the South Caucasus, with attention to elections, democratic practice, and the overarching goal of shared security commitments.
Observers note that Georgia has consistently framed its relationship with NATO as a mutual effort to advance democratic governance, institutional reform, and reform-oriented modernization. The discussions in Tbilisi illustrate the ongoing effort to balance national sovereignty with international cooperation, reinforcing a strategic trajectory where Georgia pursues security guarantees, modernization of institutions, and enhanced interoperability with allied forces. The conversations also revolve around procedures, accountability, and transparent election processes, all aimed at sustaining public confidence in democratic outcomes.
In summary, the visit highlighted Georgia’s insistence on sovereign decision-making, alongside a reaffirmed commitment from NATO to engage with Georgia on a path that prioritizes democratic development, security, and prosperity. The dialogue signals continued engagement, with both sides emphasizing the importance of Georgia’s role within regional and transatlantic security frameworks, even as the country navigates its own political calendar and electoral responsibilities.