“I’m leaving a piece of my heart in Georgia, and I will always be a true friend of the Georgian people. Thank you so much, and see you again!” – said U.S. Ambassador to Georgia Robin Dunnigan in a farewell video message released by the U.S. Embassy in Georgia.

Dunnigan emphasized that Georgia’s rightful place is in the family of Western democracies, and the special bond between the American and Georgian people is unbreakable.

“I want to take this opportunity to say goodbye and to thank you. In my 33-year diplomatic career around the world, I have never met people as warm, hospitable, and generous as the Georgian people. Thank you for opening your hearts and homes to me and my family. Thank you for sharing your heartfelt toasts, delicious feasts, your magnificent polyphonic singing, and your unique culture.

We traveled across this beautiful country – from Svaneti to Ushguli, from Kakheti to Tusheti, and every corner of Tbilisi. Everywhere we went, we were welcomed like family. We are truly amazed by your generous hospitality.

I know that the special bond between the American and Georgian people is unbreakable, and I know that Georgia belongs in the family of Western democracies. By working together, I believe we can create a better future for our children. I’m leaving a piece of my heart in Georgia and will always be a true friend of the Georgian people. Thank you so much, and see you again!”

For context, U.S. Ambassador Robin Dunnigan announced on June 5 that she would be stepping down. She stated that it was a personal decision to retire from diplomatic service and that her departure was not requested by the U.S. government.