Ambassador Degnan’s Remarks to Media at National Archives
Question about the event
Ambassador Degnan: Since Georgia regained your Independence 30 years ago, after decades of Soviet oppression before that, Russian efforts to erase your sovereignty and identity, the Georgian people have remained steadfast in their determination to establish a prosperous, stable democracy. The United States over the past 30 years, and really longer than that, has been one of Georgia’s most steadfast supporters in this effort to help establish what the Georgian people have made clear: to have their own stable demo democracy. We are very proud of that, to have been a partner in that. This exhibition here today developed by the National Archives reflects the last 30 years of our partnership in that effort. There are photos of our soldiers training together. There are photos of our leaders working together for Georgia’s democratic future and economic prosperity. There are photos of the people of Georgia and the United States building that friendship that has, accomplished so much over the last 30 years. We are here looking back, but looking forward to what we are going to do together the United States and Georgia in the years to come.
Question on Saakashvili
Ambassador Degnan: The United States, along with many others, is following very closely Mr. Saakashvili’s situation. The postponement today I think was a surprise. In the United States, when a judge orders steps to be taken, then everyone does their utmost to ensure that that court order is fulfilled. There’s a particular urgency because there is a such great concern both domestically and internationally regarding Mr. Saakashvili’s health and welfare. As we have said, ultimately it is the government’s responsibility to ensure that Mr. Saakashvili is receiving the mental and physical medical care that he needs. Further delays only increase the questions and concerns regarding his well-being.