2015-12-17
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili issued a statement discussing the possibility of ending the visa regime with Russia.
The Prime Minister's full statement is as follows:
We have read the statement of the Russian Federation President on the possible cancellation of the visa regime for Georgian citizens with Russia. We think that this is a step in the right direction.
As you know, our government lifted the visa requirement for Russian citizens as early as in 2011. This year, we have even prolonged the period of their stay in Georgia as we are interested in increasing the number of tourists from Russia and facilitating contact between people.
We should consider our numerous compatriots living in Russia, as well as the interested Georgian businessmen and ordinary citizens in the simplification of the visa regime. Their wish is to minimize the difficulties of travel between the two countries.
In spite of principle disagreements between Georgia and Russia, including the reasons for and results of the 2008 war, we have managed to make certain steps in trade, transport and humanitarian spheres over the last three years. We are ready to continue the pragmatic course toward Russia and expect a similar approach from Russian officials.
In the coming days we expect the EU decision on visa liberalization for Georgian citizens, which will be a historic event. In general, our government's principled position is that Georgian citizens should have the opportunity for maximum freedom of movement in the world.
Our government's reasonable foreign policy has produced serious tangible results. That is how it is perceived by our citizens, as well as Western partners.
Prime Minister of Georgia
Irakli garibashvili