Kobakhidze, a leading figure in the Georgian government, defended the country’s stance, emphasizing the importance of respect in its relations with the European Union. The decision, he explained, is intended to demonstrate to “European politicians and bureaucrats, completely devoid of European values, that blackmail is not the way to address Georgia, but respect is.”
He described Georgia as a “proud and self-respecting nation with a rich history,” firmly rejecting any notion that EU membership is an “act of mercy.” Instead, he insisted that Georgia’s eventual accession to the EU will be achieved “with dignity, rather than by begging.” Despite this defiant rhetoric, Georgia will continue to carry out its commitments under the Association Agreement with the EU, although without relying on funding from the bloc, according to Kobakhidze.
Georgia was granted EU candidate status last December contingent on significant reforms. However, the country’s recent political trajectory has drawn criticism from EU leaders, who accuse the government of veering toward authoritarian practices.
One of the key points of contention was the passage of a Russian-style “foreign agents” law by the ruling Georgian Dream party in May, which many view as a measure to stifle civil society. Additionally, the country’s most recent parliamentary election, which Georgian Dream claimed to have won, was fraught with controversy. Reports of violence, irregularities, and claims of electoral interference led international observers to conclude that the election was neither free nor fair. The results were disputed by pro-Western opposition groups and Georgia’s president, fueling public protests.
On Thursday, the European Parliament adopted a resolution urging the EU to impose sanctions on top officials from the Georgian Dream party, underscoring the escalating tensions between Georgia and the European bloc.
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