Mikheil Saakashvili hosted former Member of DUMA Konstantin Barovoi and famous Russian journalist Valeria Novodvorskaya. The issues discussed during the meeting were Georgia's occupation by Russia and the aggression that Russia still carries out against Georgia. During the meeting they recalled those people who sacrificed their lives for defending human rights together with Anna Politkovskaya. Mikheil Saakashvili thanked Russian journalists for the support they provided to Georgia in the toughest period of time for country.

"Let me express my honor towards you, I was raised on your TV shows. Many of you gave us examples how to fight for freedom. We were thrilled by the democratic movement in Russia then. I know that it is possible to be free in Russia.

Today is the day of Georgia's Bolshevization. I think that it was the tragedy not only for small Georgia, but for Russia as well.

Those people who wish to restore Soviet Union represent Russia's tragedy. They have a sort of chip in KGB, if you connect this chip to Kremlin it is transformed. Without this chip in Kremlin, Russia is no longer frightening. It is interesting that you are criticizing the Russian politicians. Politkovskaya was my personal friend and I am proud of it.

Last time, when I talked with Politkovskaya she was at hospital, poisoned. I wished her recovery, but she passed away soon.

Your and our freedom have no limits. Freedom has no limits at all.

We are not going to compete with Russia with tanks and weapons, we want to live simply and show everyone how much free people can do.

I wish you success and I am delighted by you. You are not only support for us, but you represent an alibi for Russia that there live free and wise people there", stated the President of Georgia Mikheil Saakashvili.

Press Office
of the President of Georgia