Shevardnadze Says He Will Not Leave Georgia

Berlin, 24 November 2003 (RFE/RL) -- Georgia's ousted President Eduard Shevardnadze says he is not going to leave his homeland, ending speculation that he was bound for Germany, news agencies reported.

He said today he likes Germany but his homeland is Georgia and that he feels compelled to stay. He said he is not thinking of going to Germany, although he is thankful for the invitation

The government in Berlin had said earlier that Shevardnadze is welcome in Germany.

Shevardnadze resigned under heavy pressure yesterday after weeks of popular protests, following allegedly rigged parliamentary elections.