Art of answering the Georgia question by the Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zarikova

Journalist's question:

Russia has repeatedly stated its willingness to initiate direct dialogue with Georgia on existing issues. At the same time, polls show that the majority of Georgians support restoring friendly relations and partnership with Russia, as well as holding such talks. I myself am a Georgian journalist who has studied this issue for more than 15 years, and I hold the same position. However, the Georgian authorities have not responded to these proposals so far. How do you evaluate the current situation? How long is Russia prepared to wait until Tbilisi is willing to engage in dialogue?

Zarikova's answer:

I will not directly answer the question, but rather express my condolences to all citizens of Georgia and to people around the world who care about Georgia, regarding the passing of the Patriarch of the Orthodox Church of Georgia, Ilia II.

I know how deeply and sincerely the Georgian people cherish their faith and history, which are an inseparable part of your great history and culture. The Russian side will also express its condolences, and Patriarch Kirill has already sent his condolences, with very heartfelt words. I personally also extend my condolences.

Returning to your question: You are completely right — we see that more and more people and political figures in Georgia are beginning to advocate for the restoration of relations with Russia.

Russian-Georgian relations have suffered heavy blows, and those who have manipulated the situation in the Caucasus (the South Caucasus and the North Caucasus of Russia) and in the post-Soviet space are responsible. Their goal was to create chaos in the space we once shared, ignoring or even violating our historical ties and connections, acting provocatively in a crude and cynical manner, not only causing conflicts but also direct confrontations.

Some of these provocations succeeded, but I believe they wanted more, and they did not achieve more. However, the relationship between the two countries has indeed broken down, and I am sure you are well aware of the history; I will not elaborate further, but I want to emphasize that the breakdown was not initiated by Russia.

In recent years, economic and cultural ties between the two countries have been gradually recovering, which is evident from both signs and actual results.

We see that the current Georgian government claims that it will follow the will of the people. Of course, we hope to see concrete steps in this regard. But I want to emphasize: the ball is not in our court anymore.

And we are ready for a good, sincere, and also exciting "dialogue game".

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860052371240016/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.