New appointment for Moscow dialogue
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze appointed Giorgi Zurabashvili as his special representative for relations with Russia on Wednesday. This position remained vacant for almost a year after Giorgi Kajaja left the post in December 2025. Zurabashvili previously held the role of Deputy Foreign Minister in 2024 and became First Deputy Foreign Minister on July 1, 2025. He will retain his position at the Foreign Ministry while representing Georgia in relations with Russia in his capacity as the special representative for the Prime Minister. Kobakhidze described the diplomat as experienced, noting that Zurabashvili held several senior public service positions, including directorships at various departments of the Foreign Ministry and an ambassadorship in his past career. The Prime Minister stated that the appointment does not signal a new stage in Georgia’s relations with Russia, as the role is necessary for maintaining dialogue with Moscow amid the absence of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Historical context of the role
Georgia and Russia have had no diplomatic relations since the 2008 war ended with Russia recognizing the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. While trade and economic relations persist, the appointment of Zurabashvili does nothing to change the reality of the frozen diplomatic situation. The special representative’s position and the Geneva International Discussions provide channels for dialogue, even though formal diplomatic ties are absent. Previously, Zur Abashidze held the position for 12 years from 2012 to 2024, serving in the "Abashidze – Karasin format" to facilitate bilateral dialogue. On October 6, the Foreign Ministry announced Abashidze was appointed Georgia’s non-resident ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary to Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Albania. Kobakhidze said the role is important for maintaining ongoing dialogue with Moscow. "The peaceful resolution of the conflict with the Russian Federation, the preservation and development of existing trade and economic relations, and maintaining ongoing dialogue on humanitarian issues are among our country’s most important priorities," Kobakhidze said. He added that the special representative, alongside the Geneva International Discussions, helps to pursue these objectives. Zurabashvili said, "I will do everything in my power to fulfil the tasks that Georgia needs me to carry out."
