On May 2, Robin Dunnigan, the US Ambassador to Georgia, released a statement revealing that the US had extended an invitation to top Georgian Government officials to discuss concerns regarding US assistance and strengthen their strategic partnership by meeting with America's highest leaders. 

Regrettably, Dunnigan noted, the Georgian authorities declined this offer. Expressing deep concern, the Ambassador criticized recent actions by the Georgian government, which she believes are steering the nation away from its path toward integration with Euro-Atlantic institutions.

Further, Ambassador Dunnigan pointed out that the ruling Georgian Dream party seems intent on pushing forward legislation that the EU has explicitly deemed contrary to Georgia's European Union ambitions. She expressed disappointment over the party's actions against staunch allies of Georgia's sovereignty, specifically the United States and the European Union.

Dunnigan underscored the enduring support the US has provided to Georgia throughout its over three decades of independence. It aimed at fostering a partnership founded on mutual values and aspirations for Georgia's integration into the Western democratic framework. Despite recent developments, the US maintains its unwavering commitment to the Georgian people and their nation's future.

Dunnigan called on the Georgian government to reaffirm its commitment to its Euro-Atlantic trajectory, a commitment enshrined in the nation's constitution. She reiterated the United States' dedication to a lasting relationship with Georgia, emphasizing a shared desire for the country's peace, stability, and prosperity.

Response from the Georgian government

On the same day, the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified the circumstances surrounding the declined invitation for a high-level meeting with US leaders, explaining that the invitation was contingent upon the Georgian Parliament halting the debate on the "Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence" before such a visit could occur. According to the ministry, this precondition was not in conformity with the spirit of partnership that should characterize the relations between the two countries.

Furthermore, the ministry emphasized that accepting a visit under such conditions would contradict the principles of mutual respect and trust fundamental to their partnership. The Ministry also noted that the US ambassador had been provided with a detailed explanation regarding this issue.

Georgian PM Challenges US Criticism of Democratic Practices

On May 2, Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia, responded vigorously to a statement made by Derek Chollet, the Counselor of the US State Department. Chollet's statement had urged the Georgian Government to reaffirm its commitment to its Euro-Atlantic future, expressing concerns over what he described as the government's antidemocratic rhetoric and legislative actions that threaten this trajectory. 

In a sharp rebuke, Kobakhidze accused the US of backing 'two revolutionary attempts' during 2020-2023, allegedly supported by a former US Ambassador, which he claimed could have escalated to the opening of the second front line in Georgia.

In his detailed statement, Kobakhidze recounted his conversation with Counselor Chollet, during which he addressed what he termed false statements by US State Department officials concerning Georgia's Draft Law on Transparency and associated street rallies. He compared these statements to past comments made by the former US Ambassador, which he argued had facilitated violence by entities operating with foreign funding and supported revolutionary movements during that period.

Kobakhidze stressed the challenges of rejuvenating bilateral relations amidst such circumstances, asserting that it would be impossible without adopting a fair and honest approach.

Concluding his statement, Kobakhidze highlighted his restraint, noting that he did not raise concerns with Chollet about the harsh suppression of a student protest rally in New York City. He then drew a parallel to emphasize his point on equitable diplomatic dialogue.