In his address to the European Parliament in Strasbourg on November 14 President Saakashvili reiterated his government’s readiness to conduct a constructive dialogue with Russia based on mutual respect.

He said that the process of Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration “has become challenging for us,” but added that Tbilisi will not divert from this path despite Russia’s pressure.

“But I do not want to use this opportunity [address to the European Parliament] to further increase tensions between Russia and Georgia. We have had enough tensions… It is time for diplomacy and discussion… I stand ready to pursue this policy, to return to the path of normal dialogue,” Saakashvili said.

He also said that Georgia is grateful for the solidarity expressed by the EU in speaking out against the anti-Georgian campaign in Russia.

In his speech Saakashvili also reiterated Tbilisi’s commitment to solve secessionist conflicts through peaceful means and the Georgian side’s readiness to offer broad autonomy to South Ossetia.