Georgian PM open to discussing foreign agent law with Council of Europe

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has affirmed the government's willingness to engage in dialogue with the Council of Europe regarding the controversial foreign agent law.

Kobakhidze emphasized that the Georgian authorities had always been open to discussion, Caliber.Az reports citing Russian media.

"We reasoned in connection with the law on transparency and fixed our openness for discussion," Kobakhidze stated.

He further added that if evidence were presented showing any negative aspects of the law, the government would be ready to address those concerns.

The Prime Minister also highlighted that the discussions could take place not only with domestic stakeholders but also with relevant institutions within the Council of Europe.

The law on transparency of foreign influence, passed earlier this year, has sparked significant debate. In June, the European Union summit warned Georgia that its EU accession process could be jeopardized due to the law. Critics, particularly from the opposition, have compared the law to Russia's foreign agents legislation, a stance supported by Brussels.

The EU views the Georgian regulation as a deviation from the European Commission’s recommendations, which are seen as a key factor in granting Georgia candidate status for EU membership.

In October, EU leaders reiterated their "serious concern" over the law, with the summit's final statement asserting that Georgia's actions are not in alignment with European principles and values.

By Vafa Guliyeva