EU Delegation Raises Concerns Over Georgia's Foreign Influence Law
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, April 11, 2024
On a two-day working visit to Georgia from April 10-11, members of the European Union's Political and Security Committee met with President Salome Zourabichvili, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili, and members of both the ruling majority and opposition in Parliament.
According to a statement from the EU representation in Georgia, delegates expressed concern during their meeting with Georgian government officials regarding the draft law on transparency of foreign influence. They also referenced the statement issued by the EU High Representative on April 4.
Additionally, the delegation emphasized the importance of Georgia using this moment on its path towards European integration. They highlighted the December decision by the European Council, which opened the door for Georgia's eventual EU membership.
They emphasized that the accession process is merit-based, urging the Georgian authorities to take the necessary steps to achieve this goal. These steps include addressing the nine priorities established by the European Commission.
The statement stressed the need for immediate reforms and progress. It urged the government, all political parties, and civil society to work together:
"Necessary reforms and progress must be made without any delay, and this must be done in a unity approach, involving both the government and all political parties and civil society. Time is short, and now is the time to implement the nine steps and avoid such a decision that would hinder the path to the European Union," the statement said.
