Senator Shaheen and Congressman Turner Reaffirm Support for Georgia Amid Concerns Over Relations and Democracy
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, August 12, 2024
On August 11, US Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Congressman Mike Turner held a press conference to discuss their recent visit to Georgia. The bipartisan delegation aimed to convey unwavering US support for Georgia's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration. The visit also provided an opportunity to address concerns about the state of democracy in Georgia and the future of US- Georgian relations.
Senator Shaheen emphasized the importance of the visit, stating, "We are here because we are committed to Georgia, to the partnership that the United States and Georgia have had for over 30 years; to continue the country moving in a democratic direction." She emphasised concerns over the upcoming elections, stressing the necessity for them to be conducted freely and fairly. These concerns were raised directly with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, alongside the issue of the Georgian government spreading false claims that the U.S. was involved in a plot to overthrow the government. Shaheen noted that this disinformation had contributed to a "pause" in the US-Georgia relations.
Congressman Turner reiterated the US's commitment to Georgia, underscoring that their visit was solely focused on the country, highlighting the U.S. desire to support democratic institutions and European integration. He warned of the growing aggressiveness of authoritarian regimes toward democracies, using Russia's occupation of Georgian territories as a prime example. Turner expressed disappointment over the current state of US-Georgia relations, voicing a desire for improvement.
Following their meeting with Prime Minister Kobakhidze, both lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction.Shaheen regretted the lack of concrete suggestions from the Prime Minister on how to improve relations with the U.S., describing it as "disappointing."
She contrasted this with the positive impressions she gained from meeting Georgian students and entrepreneurs, who she said were "very appreciative" of the US support. Turner echoed these sentiments, noting that the Prime Minister did not take responsibility for the deteriorating relationship or offer any plans to reset it.
Looking ahead, the lawmakers were asked about potential U.S. actions in support of the Georgian people, including the possibility of sanctions against influential figures like Bidzina Ivanishvili, the founder of the ruling Georgian Dream party. Senator Shaheen expressed disappointment that Ivanishvili declined to meet with the delegation, emphasising the need for Georgia to align with its citizens' aspirations rather than mirroring Russian policies. Turner added that the U.S. has already suspended some funding to Georgia pending a review of its commitment to democratic institutions.
When questioned about the potential impact of future US elections on policy toward Georgia, both lawmakers affirmed that US support for Georgia's democratic aspirations would remain consistent, regardless of the administration. Turner and Shaheen stressed the bipartisan nature of US foreign policy toward Georgia, noting that support for democracy and European integration has been a constant across both Republican and Democratic administrations.
As Georgia prepares for parliamentary elections on October 26, the US delegation's visit underscored a commitment to ensuring the elections are free, fair, and reflective of the will of the Georgian people. Shaheen emphasized the importance of international and domestic observers in safeguarding the electoral process, reaffirming the US's dedication to supporting democracy in Georgia.
