Gocha Javakhishvili, Ambassador of Georgia to France, wrote on his Facebook page that he is leaving his position and has requested an early termination of his tenure.

“I firmly believe that Georgia has a strong foundation in its national values and understands the cost of freedom and independence. The Georgian people have faced and endured so much from Russia that the country’s soil will no longer nurture Russian influence.

I do not personally know anyone in my immediate surroundings, whether in government or among diplomats, who is openly pro-Russian, though I recognize some may use this stance as a tactic to achieve certain goals.

However, I no longer see my role and resources aligning with this approach: moving towards Europe and at the same time protecting myself from Europe.

The situation and atmosphere with our foreign partners, especially due to the reemergence of the controversial draft law, have made my role as Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Georgia to France and Monaco increasingly challenging.

As a result, I have requested to end my tenure in this position ahead of schedule.

I will also honestly say that we should express both protest and satisfaction in the elections. I don"t want my honest opinion to be perceived as a political demarche for someone"s benefit or to someone’s detriment. I want, after a long hesitation, to get rid of the burden that I feel I can"t handle anymore.

Even if I am wrong, I will not regret it. I will only act according to the dictates of my conscience. I also realize that I hurt many people with this decision and I am worried even more.

In the future, wherever I am, I will always be a supporter of Georgia’s European future”, - writes Gocha Javakhishvili.