TBILISI. Sept 7 (Interfax) - Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili says he is unwilling to worsen relations with Russia but remains adherent to the Western cooperation vector.
"We need to provide lasting peace with neighbors, especially with Russia, on the basis of a practical relationship. No matter which political party comes to power, Georgia is still a partner of the European Union and the United States. However, we should not worsen our relations with neighbors, including Russia, with whom we are holding practical dialogue that should be carried on," Garibashvili said at a conference, 'New Geopolitical Landscape of Europe', in Tbilisi on Monday.
He noted the importance of the Association Agreement with Europe for Georgian modernization and described European and Euro-Atlantic integration as key components of democracy in Georgia.
In turn, Georgian President Giorgi Margvelashvili told the conference delegates he was concerned about current levels of stability in Europe.
"Security and stability in Europe remains an open question. Moscow is sending frank messages about its foreign policy course, according to which Russian neighbors lie within the zone of Russian interests. Russian politicians think they can resolve issues in this country in any manner, including the military way. So far, I have no answer to this approach of Russia," Margvelashvili said.
The McCain Institute and the Center for Economic Policy Research are amongst the conference organizers. The conference is being attended by political leaders, experts and analysts from Georgia, America and Europe.