The Georgian and Russian peoples have missed each other—the above was stated by Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, in an interview with Russian media at an international youth festival held in Yekaterinburg.

"I think this is not the first time you have seen the Georgian delegation on this platform. Yes, we do not have official diplomatic relations; however, at the same time, trade, economic, and humanitarian ties are actively developing. And finally—I will use the word 'Hallelujah' here, because this was long-awaited—visa restrictions have been lifted. What was previously possible only for specific groups and delegations from Georgia attending this forum is now open to every single citizen of that country. We are waiting for everyone. We have missed each other," Zakharova said.

She noted that "tourist routes for Russian citizens in Georgia are developing" and mentioned that she had spoken with the Georgian delegation during the festival.

"Look at how our people are welcomed there and the excellent service they receive. I can say the same about Russia. We look forward to the influx of tourists. We have never erected barriers against those who came to us peacefully—whether they were representatives of countries with unfriendly regimes or representatives of our allies. There has never been any segregation," Zakharova noted.