It is crucial that Georgia is not left out of major initiatives such as the construction of a South Caucasus transport corridor, and the U.S. should be actively involved in the development of infrastructure critical to Georgia, including the construction and operation of a deep-water port, “Lelo - Strong Georgia” leader Badri Japaridze stated after meeting with a U.S. congressional staff delegation.

Japaridze emphasized that despite the difficult situation in Georgia, it is necessary to increase U.S. interest and involvement in the country. He noted that where the Trump administration has been involved, efficiency and rapid decision-making have improved.

“Our task is to restore the partnership agreement between Georgia and the U.S., which has been disrupted. The U.S. can take steps to create the necessary conditions for a strategic agreement. This is essential for Georgia’s security and the welfare of its people,” Japaridze said.

He stressed that Georgia must not be excluded from the South Caucasus transport corridor initiative, where construction in Armenia and Azerbaijan is proceeding rapidly. The U.S. should act as a guarantor to ensure that the corridor passing through Georgia is safe and that Georgia’s sovereignty is protected. Only the U.S. has the ability to secure Georgia’s sovereignty, he added.

The meeting with the U.S. congressional staff took place at the residence of Chargé d’Affaires Alan Persel, with opposition leaders including Badri Japaridze, Zura Japaridze (“Coalition for Change”), Levan Tsutsqiridze (“Freedom Square”), and Giorgi Baramidze (“United National Movement”) in attendance.

Earlier, the delegation met with Levan Zhorzholiani, head of the Georgian Government Administration.