Georgia's EU Integration Frozen by 'Foreign Agents' law, Says EU Ambassador
By Liza Mchedlidze
Thursday, June 20, 2024
Pawel Herczynski, the Ambassador of the European Union to Georgia, has stated that the adoption of Georgia's "Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence" has effectively halted the country's integration into the European Union. The statement was made in response to Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze's suggestion that the law could increase the chances of EU negotiation talks by "20-30%".
Herczynski expressed regret over the strained relations between the EU and Georgia, citing long standing concerns that the "Foreign Influence" law would hinder Georgia's aspirations to join the EU. He noted that these concerns have now become a reality, impacting Georgia's progress toward EU membership.
"In principle, the adoption of this law froze Georgia's integration into the European Union," Herczynski emphasized. He highlighted the EU's requirement for unanimity among member states for integration decisions, noting that several states have publicly opposed opening accession negotiations with Georgia due to this law.
The EU Ambassador also revealed that the European Commission and External Action Service have prepared various options for retaliatory measures in response to Georgia's legislative developments. These options will be discussed among EU member states at upcoming meetings of foreign ministers and the European Council.
Herczynski expressed disappointment that Georgia's integration process has been halted, while also noting the EU's ongoing progress with Ukraine and Moldova in accession negotiations. He emphasized that decisions on measures against Georgia will be made by EU member states based on the options presented.
"We have provided member states with a menu of options, and it is up to them to decide which measures will be implemented," Herczynski concluded.
