On February 10, Mikhail Galuzin, the Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, stated that the Georgian Dream government’s "pragmatic" approach had prompted reciprocal actions from Russia and that the consistent development of relations could lead to the full restoration of diplomatic ties.

Galuzin was asked about Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s statement on maintaining a pragmatic policy with Russia and the conditions under which diplomatic relations could be restored. He emphasized that Russia would not impose conditions, stating, "In general, it is not exactly our policy to impose conditions, although in some cases it has to be done, but this is still an exception to the rules. We are in favor of further development of relations with neighboring Georgia."

Galuzin praised the Georgian Dream government’s pragmatic stance, noting, "Seeing this pragmatic line of the government of the Georgian Dream Party, we have taken and are taking steps to develop Russian-Georgian cooperation, first of all, in the interests of the peoples of our countries." He attributed Russia’s decisions to resume air links with Georgia and restore visa-free travel for short-term visitors and Georgian citizens seeking work, study, or residence in Russia to this pragmatic approach.

He reiterated Moscow’s readiness to continue fostering pragmatic and mutually beneficial cooperation with Georgia, stating, "We have been and will continue to be Georgia’s key economic partner." He further emphasized that a consistent development of relations could lead to full normalization and the restoration of diplomatic ties, adding, "Moscow is prepared to go as far here as the Georgian side is prepared to go, and there are no restrictions for us here."