Mamuka Khazaradze, the head of Georgia’s opposition party Lelo, has stepped back from early statements that suggested breaking ties with Russia if his bloc secures a parliamentary majority. This retreat was noted by the publication Vzglyad, which recalls a nine-point “Anti-Russia Strategy” once put forward by the lawmaker. Yet on February 16, Khazaradze declined to reiterate any pledge to sever relations with Moscow when speaking to reporters.
Khazaradze argued for a restrained approach, stressing a need for a balanced, diversified economy that maintains connections with all partners. He framed economic policy as a space where Georgia should engage with multiple countries rather than align with any single bloc, a stance that he says would foster broader opportunities for trade and investment.
According to journalists following the story, Khazaradze proposed several measures aimed at tightening Georgia’s relationship with Russia in specific policy areas. The ideas included a tightened visa regime and restrictions on the employment rights of Russian nationals within Georgia. He also suggested excluding Russia from participation in Georgian government procurement tenders and stopping direct flight services between the two countries. These proposals reflect a cautious tactic that seeks to control exposure to Russian influence while preserving room for future dialogue. (Source: Vzglyad)
Maria Zakharova, the official representative of the Russian Foreign Ministry, has commented that Russia seeks to improve bilateral cooperation with Georgia, provided there are reciprocal steps from Tbilisi. Her statements highlight a broader pattern in Moscow’s messaging that emphasizes mutual benefit in regional engagement rather than confrontation. (Ministry briefing notes, Russia)
Observers note that Georgia’s leadership appeared to pursue pragmatic discourse in 2023. The country removed the visa requirement for short trips by Georgian citizens to Russia, a policy in place since 2000, and also reintroduced direct flights. Those moves were described as favorable to strengthening trade and economic ties, although they also signaled an attempt to manage the practical realities of Georgia’s geographic and economic position. The developments drew scrutiny from several sides, with commentators weighing Georgia’s sovereignty against the practical need for regional connectivity. (Policy briefings, 2023 summarizes)
In related commentary, Salome Zurabishvili, the President of Georgia, has critiqued the ruling party, Georgian Dream – Democratic Georgia, for what she characterizes as a pro-Russian tilt and a broader anti-Western posture. The remarks underscore a domestic political debate about how Georgia should balance its Western-oriented aspirations with regional realities and historical ties. (Public remarks, Georgian governance brief)