Georgia, Tbilisi, Feb.13 / Trend, N.Kirtskhalia /
By refusing to negotiate with Russia, the Georgian authorities waive the right to restore territorial integrity, former Georgian President Eduard Shevardnadze believes. He made this statement in an interview with the Asaval-Dasavali weekly on Monday. He said the Georgian authorities do not understand the necessity of dialogue with Russia.
"It is impossible to restore territorial integrity without Russia, but the Georgian authorities have accused all other political groups that have announced their willingness to begin a dialogue with Moscow as an act of betrayal," Mr Shevardnadze said.
He welcomed a statement made by billionaire Bidzina Ivanishvili, who expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue with Russia and NATO simultaneously.
"It is the correct position, as we have to live alongside such neighbours as Russia and NATO," Mr Shevardnadze said.
He said that over time, both Russia and Georgia will become NATO members and "there will be no problem" between them.
He believes that Mr Saakashvili has no right to remain in power and that Mr Ivanishvili will win in the forthcoming parliamentary and presidential elections.
