Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze stated that it is difficult to extend congratulations to Moldova following its recent elections, citing the country’s continued membership in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) as the reason.

Responding to a question about whether he plans to congratulate Moldovan President Maia Sandu on her electoral victory, Kobakhidze said Georgia's ruling party will refrain from doing so until Moldova formally exits the Russia-led regional organization.

“As long as Moldova remains a member of the CIS, it will be difficult for us to congratulate,” he said. “We will wait until Moldova leaves the CIS, and then we will see — we will reconsider the issue of congratulations.”