Georgia responds to EU's critical stance on European integration efforts

The Georgian government has expressed dissatisfaction with the recent statement from the EU summit, which indicated that the country's path to European Union membership is effectively blocked.

In contrast, Moldova and Ukraine received positive remarks, a distinction that Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze described as biased, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

Kobakhidze highlighted the discrepancies in assessments during a press conference, stating, “Positive evaluations are made regarding Ukraine and Moldova, where numerous TV channels and political parties are being shut down. There is a lack of media pluralism and political pluralism, rampant corruption, and severely weakened institutions. Yet, Moldova continues to be a member of the CIS. Objectivity seems to be absent, and the society notices this.”

Earlier, the European Council released a final statement following the summit of EU leaders, accusing Georgia's authorities of undermining European values and effectively blocking its EU accession process. The statement expressed “readiness to support the Georgian people on the European path,” suggesting a clear division between the populace and the government.

Furthermore, Brussels announced plans to “closely monitor” the upcoming parliamentary elections in Georgia, emphasizing the need for them to be “free and fair,” with foreign observers present and robust support for “free, independent, and diverse media.”

While the document lacks specific demands, EU officials have previously outlined three primary conditions for Georgia: the repeal of the foreign agents legislation, the lifting of the ban on LGBT propaganda, and a commitment to a confrontational stance towards Moscow, including alignment with EU anti-Russian sanctions, similar to the approach taken by Moldova's leadership.

By Tamilla Hasanova