Appearance of a new politician was met with much criticism by the Government

The statement of Bidzina Ivanishvili spread by the Georgian media received numerous feedbacks from the Parliamentary Majority: “The Authorities are not going to challenge the man who exchanged love of homeland for a certain currency…,” – this was the pathos of the majority of the ruling party.  We talked with Olympic Champion Giorgi Asanidze, member of the Majority:

Q: Let’s start off w

A: He addressed thousands of Georgians from the Freedom Square and pointed out that he supported the drive for de-occupation of Georgia and the country’s territorial integrity. Sarkozy demanded fulfillment of the six-point agreement which was reached with the Russian Federation thanks to his personal efforts. At the same time, he emphasized the need for the dialogue with Russia. Also important were the statements of the French President on Georgian integration into NATO and European Union. Even though Sarkozy’s address was diplomatically balanced, I saw many positive points in it. They are going to bring real results.

Q: What do you make of Bidzina Ivanishvili’s pledged entry into politics and accents he made in his statement?

A: I will not comment on Ivanishvili’s statement by now. His actions can be analyzed and examined only when he starts his political practice. I would welcome any newly created political force if it is to strengthen movement of Georgia along the chosen road. I know Bidzina Ivanishvili. However, I have not seen much of him. I know what he has been doing for our country. I would accept anyone who strives for the better future and economic revival of Georgia.

Q: His statement sounded as a strong criticism of the Authorities, inciting similar criticism on the part of the ruling elite, i.e. from your team.

A: It’s hard to tell what Ivanishvili would do next. The road chosen by the Authorities and my team is the right one. I would welcome anyone who backs this choice. Accordingly, all the other roads are wrong.

Q: Your teammates called Ivanishvili “a Russian businessman” and a bearer of Russian interests.

A: I will make my judgment only after he takes specific political steps. Anyway, it’s no secret that Ivanishvili made his fortune in Russia. I will not support anyone who will propel Georgia towards Russia.