The messenger logo

Should Georgia have a Western orientation or be neutral?

Wednesday, August 12
“Definitely a Western orientation is better than neutrality. We should join the European Union and NATO in order to feel ourselves safer. What we will gain from neutrality is not clear to me, no one has promised us that if Georgia becomes neutral Russia will return our occupied territories. So I think we should continue with the orientation we have today.”
Nana, teacher, 42

“I would be very happy if Georgia became a neutral country, however I think this is impossible. We are located in a strategic place, linking Europe and Asia, and we have two internal conflicts, so I don’t think there is any chance of turning Georgia into a neutral country.”
Dima, businessman, 39

“In my opinion Georgia should choose a Western orientation and pursue this policy consistently. I see Georgia’s future in Europe. Neutrality is good, however it is less than realistic in our case.”
Natia, lawyer, 25

“First we have to resolve our own conflicts and restore the territorial integrity of Georgia, and then become neutral, if it is possible. I don’t think it is appropriate or possible to declare ourselves a neutral state without achieving this.”
liso, teacher, 40

“It is impossible for Georgia to be neutral country because it is too small and we don’t have powerful armed forces and a strong economy. This means that external protection is necessary for our existence.”
Nia, doctor, 45

“I think Georgia should have a Western orientation. Without their help we will not be able to protect ourselves from Russian aggression. On the other hand Western countries are highly developed, have new technologies, and we really need their assistance to become a modern and developed country.”
Giorgi, student, 19

“We must be a neutral country. When Russia or the Western countries assist you it means that they have their goals here. We must decide what we want and not others. I realise that neutrality is difficult in the region we are in but nothing is impossible.”
Natia, economist, 30

“Georgia has never been a neutral country. We have always had foreign friends and enemies. Our location doesn’t allow us to be neutral.”
Temur, historian, 41