Kobakhidze, Papuashvili Emphasize National Interests and Sovereignty at Diplomat's Day Event
By Messenger Staff
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Georgia's national interests, sovereignty and foreign policy priorities were the focus of speeches by Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili at an event marking Diplomat's Day.
Addressing Georgian diplomats, Kobakhidze said diplomacy had been essential to the country's survival and development throughout its history and remained a key instrument in defending national interests.
"Given the occupation of two of our regions and the complex security challenges we face, pursuing a consistent, pragmatic foreign policy rooted in our national interests is of critical importance to our country," Kobakhidze said.
He also highlighted the contribution of the diplomatic service, noting that the state relies on its diplomatic corps to advance Georgia's interests internationally. Kobakhidze congratulated the recipients of the Sulkhan-Saba Orbeliani and Akaki Chkhenkeli awards, presented in recognition of their contributions to Georgian diplomacy.
Meanwhile, Papuashvili called on Georgian diplomats to defend the country's sovereignty in relations with both allies and adversaries, stressing that partnerships should not come at the expense of national interests.
"Do not hesitate to defend Georgia's sovereignty, whether in dealings with an adversary or a friend. Sometimes, it is precisely a friend who needs to be reminded that partnership does not entail substituting another's political will with one's own," Papuashvili said.
He argued that international relations were increasingly shaped by power politics and national interests, while the principles of international law and the rules-based international order faced growing pressure.
Reflecting on Georgia's restoration of independence 35 years ago, Papuashvili said the country had initially viewed the post-Cold War international order with greater optimism, expecting relations between states to be increasingly governed by law rather than force.
"Today, we possess greater experience. We now understand that international politics has never been a realm for sentiment; states act in accordance with their own interests. Recognizing this is not cynicism-it is an essential prerequisite for a responsible foreign policy," he said.
Papuashvili also stressed that Georgia must uphold the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, arguing that it should demonstrate the same respect for sovereignty that it expects from its international partners.
"Georgia should not merely demand that others respect the principle of non-interference; we ourselves must set an example of respect for international law," he said.
He added that Georgian diplomacy must combine a firm commitment to national interests with the flexibility needed to build international partnerships, while distinguishing reasonable compromises from concessions that undermine the country's sovereignty.
Papuashvili identified Georgia's key foreign policy objectives as the peaceful reunification of the country, the protection of its independence and sovereignty, and the well-being of its population.
