Meaning: The quote "When I came back to power, Georgia was completely isolated on the international stage" by Eduard Shevardnadze, a Georgian politician, reflects the challenges he faced upon returning to office. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is important to delve into the context of Shevardnadze's political career and the circumstances surrounding Georgia's international relations during his tenure.

Eduard Shevardnadze served as the second President of Georgia from 1992 to 2003. He played a pivotal role in the country's transition from the Soviet era to an independent state. Shevardnadze was known for his diplomatic skills and efforts to strengthen Georgia's position in the international arena. However, his presidency was marked by political instability, economic hardships, and conflicts with separatist regions such as Abkhazia and South Ossetia.

The quote suggests that Georgia faced significant diplomatic challenges during the period when Shevardnadze returned to power. It indicates that the country was isolated and lacked meaningful engagement with the international community. This isolation could have resulted from a range of factors, including regional conflicts, geopolitical tensions, or internal political turmoil.

One of the key events during Shevardnadze's presidency that contributed to Georgia's isolation was the 2003 Rose Revolution. This popular uprising led to Shevardnadze's resignation and the end of his presidency. The revolution was driven by widespread dissatisfaction with his government's performance, allegations of electoral fraud, and the perception of entrenched corruption. The international community closely watched these developments, and the political upheaval in Georgia further strained its diplomatic standing.

The period of isolation referenced in the quote may also be linked to the aftermath of the Soviet Union's collapse. Georgia, like other former Soviet republics, faced the challenge of establishing its independent identity and building new relations with global powers. The geopolitical landscape of the post-Soviet era was complex, with competing interests and alliances shaping international relations. As a result, Georgia had to navigate these dynamics while seeking recognition and support from the international community.

Furthermore, the unresolved conflicts in Abkhazia and South Ossetia significantly impacted Georgia's international standing. These regions had declared independence from Georgia, leading to protracted conflicts and humanitarian crises. The lack of a resolution to these disputes further complicated Georgia's relations with neighboring countries and international actors. The presence of Russian peacekeeping forces in these regions added another layer of complexity to Georgia's diplomatic efforts.

In response to the challenges outlined in the quote, Shevardnadze likely pursued diplomatic initiatives to address Georgia's isolation. He may have sought to engage in dialogue with key regional and global stakeholders, promote economic and political reforms, and advocate for Georgia's interests on the international stage. However, the effectiveness of these efforts in overcoming Georgia's isolation during Shevardnadze's return to power remains a subject of historical analysis and debate.

In conclusion, the quote by Eduard Shevardnadze reflects the difficult circumstances that Georgia faced in terms of its international isolation during a critical period in its history. The challenges of navigating post-Soviet geopolitics, internal political turmoil, and unresolved regional conflicts contributed to Georgia's diplomatic struggles. Understanding the context of Shevardnadze's presidency and the broader dynamics of international relations in the region is essential for comprehending the significance of this quote and its implications for Georgia's historical trajectory.