Georgian Officials Defend Independent Foreign Policy at Diplomats' Conference
By Liza Mchedlidze
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Georgian leaders defended the country's independent approach to international relations at the opening of the annual Ambassadors' Conference, calling on diplomats to safeguard national interests amid rising external pressures. The conference runs through December 25 and brings together officials from across the foreign service.
Georgian Dream Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili told diplomats that they operate in a "very difficult, rapidly changing, and often unpredictable environment." She said the ongoing occupation of two regions remains Georgia's primary security challenge and stressed the importance of diplomacy in protecting the country's territorial integrity.
"Actions aimed at undermining Georgia's political choices and stability continue to create challenges for our institutions," Botchorishvili said. She noted that recent appointments of 36 heads of diplomatic missions are intended to strengthen the foreign service and its ability to respond to these pressures. She added that reforms are underway to bring in younger, well-trained diplomats to complement experienced staff.
Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said Georgia's foreign policy is guided by pragmatism and careful decision-making. "Our consistent approach has allowed us to protect national interests and maintain stability," he said, referring to attempts by external actors to involve Georgia in military conflict. He cited the country's economic growth, averaging 9.8 percent, as evidence of the link between stability and development, and reiterated that non-recognition of the occupied territories remains a priority.
Georgian Dream Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili framed Georgia's situation within a broader international context, citing the war in Ukraine and global power dynamics. "External pressures are not just internal matters but part of wider geopolitical struggles," he said. Papuashvili warned that the unipolar world order no longer exists and said Georgia must focus on its own national interests. "Our only certainty is our homeland. Georgia must come first in every strategic choice," he said.
Georgian Dream President-elect Mikheil Kavelashvili stated that 2025 was a challenging year for Georgia, with the country facing what he termed "undeserved accusations" regarding its policies. He emphasized the importance of strengthening trade and transit links to reinforce Georgia's role as a regional hub. "Our priority remains promoting peace and open dialogue while protecting our national interests," he said.
The conference follows recent dismissals in the Foreign Ministry, which critics describe as politically motivated. Officials said the event reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen the diplomatic corps and ensure Georgia's foreign policy remains independent.
