Georgian parliament speaker condemns EU criticism of Orthodox Church

Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili has criticised what he described as unacceptable attacks by European Union institutions on the Georgian Orthodox Church, calling for a firm response to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Speaking to reporters, Papuashvili said a "red line" should be drawn to ensure that "no one, including any EU institution, dares to attack the Georgian Church and its numerous flock," Caliber.Az reports per Georgian media. 

"It is important now to respond very firmly and directly so that this does not set a precedent," he said.

Papuashvili's comments followed remarks by Andria Jagmaidze, head of the Georgian Patriarchate's press service, who claimed that representatives of the European Union had accused the Georgian Orthodox Church (GOC) of serving Russia's interests because of its refusal to support LGBT-related initiatives.

According to Jagmaidze, the church had previously chosen not to disclose details of such exchanges but decided to speak publicly after the European Parliament adopted a resolution that he said accused the GOC of acting in Russia's interests.

Jagmaidze also alleged that during a visit to the Patriarchate in August 2023, then Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib, who now serves as the European Commissioner for Equality, told church representatives that the Georgian Orthodox Church held considerable influence over society and urged it to help promote same-sex marriage.

By Sabina Mammadli