Georgia, Tbilisi, Jan. 11 / Trend N.Kirtzkhalia /
U.S. Senator John McCain arrived in Batumi last night and began meetings in Georgia this morning. He is currently meeting with the Georgian opposition.
This will be a free and informal meeting, Georgian Republican Party Chairman and Alliance for Georgia Co-Chair David Usupashvili said before the meeting. The agenda has not been set.
"Senator McCain has a deep knowledge of Georgia's geopolitical issues," he said. "Moreover, he has shown positive attention toward our country. But since his last visit he has overrated domestic politics and democratic institutions in Georgia. We are waiting for this interesting meeting." The chairman also noted that the sides will discuss security issues.
"He is not a member of the ruling U.S. team. But he has significant influence on U.S. foreign policy. His views on Georgia's security are always interesting," he added.
Georgia's President Mikhail Saakashvili, who is also in Batumi, will receive McCain following his meeting with the opposition.
After the meetings, McCain will visit Zugdidi where he will meet with EU observers. He is also expected to meet with IDPs who were forced to flee their homes after the Russian-Georgian conflict.
McCain will leave Georgia midday.