3+3 negotiation format unacceptable for Tbilisi due to Russia’s involvement

Georgia considers the 3+3 negotiation format on the South Caucasus unacceptable due to Russia’s participation, RIA Novosti writes, citing Levan Machavariani, a member of the ruling Georgian Dream–Democratic Georgia party.

Machavariani stated that a key condition for Tbilisi’s participation in negotiations in such a format would be “the resolution of the issue of Georgia’s territorial integrity.” Additionally, the lack of diplomatic relations between Tbilisi and Moscow serves as another major obstacle. Only after these issues are resolved can discussions on the format of negotiations be considered, Machavariani thinks.

Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had stated that the doors remained open for Georgia’s participation in the 3+3 discussions.

The 3+3 format suggests the participation of the three South Caucasus republics—Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan—alongside their three neighboring states—Russia, Turkey, and Iran—in negotiations.