Irakli Kadagishvili: We do not have a political dialogue with Russia, but there are issues that concern the humanitarian sphere, the transport sphere, the economy, in connection with which the functioning of a communication line is necessary

We need to have a certain channel of communication with the Russian Federation in every situation, — Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Self-Government Irakli Kadagishvili told journalists, commenting on the appointment of Giorgi Zurabashvili as the Special Representative of the Prime Minister of Georgia on issues of relations with Russia.

According to him, because of the occupation there is no diplomatic and political dialogue with Russia; however, for the resolution of economic, humanitarian or transport issues the functioning of a communication channel is necessary.

“This is a very positive, important and timely step taken from the side of the Prime Minister. We need to have a certain channel of communication with the Russian Federation in every situation. As you know, proceeding from the occupation we do not have diplomatic relations; we do not have a political dialogue with the Russian Federation. But there are a whole series of issues that concern the humanitarian sphere, the transport sphere, the economy, or may concern the issue of human rights on the same occupied territory, in connection with which the functioning of this communication line is necessary.

Today a person must be blind not to see how important precisely the need for multilateral communication is for any country and, among them, for Georgia. We see that in connection with the same negotiations with Russia the whole of Europe, America — I do not know who is not involved. Therefore let no one point a finger at Georgia with the aim that Georgia may not have a lawful, so to speak, right, proceeding from that political level at which the relations of Georgia and Russia are at the lowest level, to have a channel of communication. This channel has existed for decades as it is and this continues its functioning,” Kadagishvili stated.

We remind you that Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze appointed the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Giorgi Zurabashvili, as Special Representative on issues of relations with Russia.

According to Kobakhidze’s explanation, against the background of the absence of diplomatic relations, this position has key significance for dialogue on economic, humanitarian and the peaceful resolution of the conflict. Zurabashvili will retain the post of First Deputy Minister together with the duties of Special Representative.