On June 4, Irakli Kobakhidze, the Prime Minister of Georgia, opened the 16th Tbilisi Regional Forum on Sustainable Development, emphasizing that the country's development is measured not only by record economic growth but also by peace, security, quality education, innovation, and policies focused on improving people's well-being. Kobakhidze stated that the forum has evolved into an important international platform and expressed satisfaction that Tbilisi continues to host the event for the sixteenth time. He noted that amid increasing global challenges and geopolitical tensions, the forum's central theme, "Sustainable Development for Socio-Economic Well-Being," has gained particular significance. According to him, diplomacy has become increasingly important at a time when major powers are pressuring smaller states to align with competing blocs.

He emphasized that the forum's agenda addresses complex geopolitical issues alongside matters directly linked to Georgia's long-term priorities. These include strengthening sovereignty, enhancing energy security, evaluating the role of large hydropower projects in achieving energy independence, developing human capital, promoting innovation, and advancing sustainable urban development reforms. Kobakhidze highlighted the importance of the forum's peace platform, stating that sustainable progress and prosperity cannot be achieved without long-term stability. He stressed that economic indicators alone do not define development and expressed confidence that discussions held during the forum would contribute to building a stronger, safer, and more sovereign Georgia. He concluded by thanking the organizers, partners, and participants, wishing them productive discussions.

Responding to journalists' questions regarding comments made by US Republican Congressman Joe Wilson to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Kobakhidze dismissed allegations linking Georgia to Iran and China. "What Georgia and Iran? Are you Joe Wilsons or what?" he stated, adding that the American administration itself has spoken about strengthening relations with both China and Russia.

Addressing questions about the presence of the Iranian ambassador at the forum, Kobakhidze explained that invitations had been extended to all ambassadors representing countries with diplomatic relations with Georgia. He noted that attendance at such events is a matter for the diplomatic corps itself and pointed to previous state events, including celebrations marking May 26 and Police Day, where a broad range of ambassadors had participated. Kobakhidze also rejected claims that Georgia was being used to circumvent sanctions on Iran. Referring to statements made by Wilson and Eka Gigauri, he stated that Georgia's exports to Iran account for approximately 0.5% of total exports, while imports from Iran represent about 1.5% of total imports. In his view, allegations that Georgia was facilitating sanctions evasion were unfounded and "shameful."

Commenting on Georgian-US relations, Kobakhidze emphasized that Georgia is a sovereign state seeking an equal partnership with the United States rather than a subordinate role. He argued that any deterioration in bilateral relations was entirely the responsibility of the previous US administration. "Georgia is not a school student to be given remedial tasks by anyone - Georgia is a dignified state," Kobakhidze stated. He added that Tbilisi remains prepared to discuss all issues related to restoring the strategic partnership between the two countries and believes that problems created through unfair treatment can only be resolved through a fair approach. According to Kobakhidze, Georgia remains optimistic about recent diplomatic signals and sees grounds for believing that strategic relations with the United States can be restored. He stated that the country's objective is to renew the partnership on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

The prime minister also argued that Georgia's opposition has become politically weakened and discredited, claiming that statements from abroad no longer have the domestic impact they once did. Nevertheless, he reiterated that the government remains focused on rebuilding strategic ties with Washington. Kobakhidze stressed that any roadmap for restoring bilateral relations must be jointly developed rather than imposed by one side. He stated that Georgian and American representatives are engaged in discussions aimed at reaching a mutually agreed framework for future cooperation. He further noted that Georgia's own course remains centered on protecting national sovereignty, dignity, independence, democracy, and the rule of law. "You will not see in Georgia the violation of democracy or the rule of law that some wanted," Kobakhidze stated, adding that these principles form the foundation of the country's approach to international relations.

Concluding his remarks, Kobakhidze reiterated his optimism regarding the future of Georgian-US relations, stating that the restoration of strategic partnership remains possible and that the outcome will depend on future negotiations and developments.