Russia is actively seeking to improve its relationship with Georgia amid a pattern of reciprocal moves between the two countries. This broad shift in tone and policy was articulated by Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, and was relayed through the ministry’s press service. The aim, she indicated, is to push bilateral ties toward greater normalcy and steadiness after a period of friction and strategic recalibration that has affected diplomacy, security considerations, and regional cooperation across the South Caucasus.
“We aim to further normalize bilateral relations,” the spokesperson stated, outlining a path that emphasizes practical engagement, consistent dialogue, and predictable exchanges at multiple levels of government and civil society. In presenting this outlook, she framed the move as part of a broader effort to stabilize a relationship that has historically been shaped by competing narratives and strategic calculations, yet remains essential for regional stability and for the interests of both states and their peoples.
According to the Russian side, Georgian authorities undertook a pragmatic reorientation during 2023. The actions highlighted include the removal of the visa regime for short visits by Georgian citizens to Russia, a policy long in place since the early 2000s, and the reintroduction of direct passenger flights. Beyond the immediate travel conveniences, these measures were presented as indicators of a renewed willingness to expand trade, deepen economic cooperation, and simplify cross-border contact between citizens, businesses, and local authorities. The emphasis was on tangible, day-to-day exchanges that could, over time, contribute to a more predictable atmosphere for regional commerce and people-to-people connections, even as political dialog continued to unfold against a complex geopolitical backdrop.
“We are pleased with the results of the partnership,” the foreign policy department representative added, suggesting an ongoing assessment of the benefits that cooperation within geographic and political groupings can yield. The reference to partnerships and shared projects within groups such as the Commonwealth of Independent States was framed as evidence of common interests and a foundation for further collaboration, despite divergences that may still exist in broader foreign policy positions. The statement pointed toward a collaborative approach that recognizes mutual gains while acknowledging the need for careful management of disagreements that arise from divergent strategic priorities.
Meanwhile, Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili has voiced longstanding concerns that the historical stance toward Russia has included a sense of perpetual tension. In remarks from January, she suggested that Georgia’s leadership and many of its citizens have carried the impression that conflict or at least a wary posture towards Moscow has been a persistent feature of regional dynamics. Those comments reflect a broader national narrative that prioritizes sovereignty, security guarantees, and alignment with Western institutions while navigating the realities of neighborly relations with a powerful neighbor to the north.
In previous public statements, Zurabishvili criticized the ruling party for its approach toward Russia, arguing that the government’s foreign policy orientation and its responsiveness to Western partners have shaped, and sometimes sharpened, the political discourse around security, geopolitical priorities, and international alignment. The dialogue around these issues has continued to evolve, with domestic debates focusing on how to balance practical needs for economic openness and communication with the strategic objective of maintaining strong ties with Western partners. The ongoing discussions illustrate the dynamic nature of Georgian diplomacy in a landscape where security, economic development, and regional cooperation are intertwined and frequently reassessed in light of new developments and changing international pressures.