The News in Brief
Thursday, August 29, 2024
Prepared by Messenger Staff
German Ambassador Peter Fischer Criticizes Government Rhetoric
In a recent podcast with Nini Shengelia, German Ambassador Peter Fischer stated that Georgia cannot join the European Union as long as the Russian-influenced "foreign influence" law remains in place. Fischer explained, "If a country adopts laws that contradict the fundamental principles of the European Union, then it cannot join. The law on 'foreign influence' is precisely such a contradictory piece of legislation, as it blatantly interferes with the fundamental rights guaranteed by the European Union."
Fischer also criticized the Georgian government's recent rhetoric towards Western partners, describing it as "unfriendly". He noted, "There has been very unfriendly rhetoric towards former best friends: Germany, the EU, other EU member states and the US, towards whom many things have been said that are not typical of partner countries." He refuted accusations that the EU funds terrorism, stating, "The EU does not finance terrorism; the EU fights terrorism," and expressed disbelief at claims about threats against European officials, saying, "We don't kill people, and we somehow get mentioned in discussions about the Global War Party, liberal fascism, the revolution, the second front. We figure in a context where we don't belong."
Fischer also addressed misinformation about the EU, remarking, "If all this is true, then why are so many Georgians going to the European Union? Actually, I would say that the European Union is the best place to live."
Finally, the ambassador encouraged Georgians to participate in the October 26 parliamentary elections, urging citizens to express their positions during this critical time for the country.
State Department Denounces Russian Claims of 'Color Revolution' Plot in Georgia
State Department press spokesperson Matthew Miller has refuted accusations from the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service that the US is orchestrating a "color revolution" in Georgia. In a statement reported by journalist Alex Raufoglu, Miller labeled the allegations as "categorically false."
Miller reiterated the US's commitment to supporting Georgia, saying, "We have a proud record of working together with the people of Georgia to build a more peaceful, prosperous, democratic Georgia."
He further criticized Russian actions, noting, "The Kremlin orchestrated the 2008 invasion and today occupies 20% of sovereign Georgian territory, while continuing its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. We stand with Georgia against Russia's aggression."
German Ambassador Peter Fischer Criticizes Government Rhetoric
Fischer also criticized the Georgian government's recent rhetoric towards Western partners, describing it as "unfriendly". He noted, "There has been very unfriendly rhetoric towards former best friends: Germany, the EU, other EU member states and the US, towards whom many things have been said that are not typical of partner countries." He refuted accusations that the EU funds terrorism, stating, "The EU does not finance terrorism; the EU fights terrorism," and expressed disbelief at claims about threats against European officials, saying, "We don't kill people, and we somehow get mentioned in discussions about the Global War Party, liberal fascism, the revolution, the second front. We figure in a context where we don't belong."
Fischer also addressed misinformation about the EU, remarking, "If all this is true, then why are so many Georgians going to the European Union? Actually, I would say that the European Union is the best place to live."
Finally, the ambassador encouraged Georgians to participate in the October 26 parliamentary elections, urging citizens to express their positions during this critical time for the country.
State Department Denounces Russian Claims of 'Color Revolution' Plot in Georgia
Miller reiterated the US's commitment to supporting Georgia, saying, "We have a proud record of working together with the people of Georgia to build a more peaceful, prosperous, democratic Georgia."
He further criticized Russian actions, noting, "The Kremlin orchestrated the 2008 invasion and today occupies 20% of sovereign Georgian territory, while continuing its brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. We stand with Georgia against Russia's aggression."