President Zourabichvili Criticizes Government and Emphasizes Importance of Upcoming Elections at Tbilisi Conference
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
On September 2, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili hosted a reception at the Orbeliani Palace for participants of the 8th Tbilisi International Conference. During her speech, Zourabichvili highlighted the significance of the 2024 conference, describing it as occurring at a critical moment for Georgia, particularly in light of the upcoming October 26 elections.
Zourabichvili sharply criticized the ruling Georgian Dream party, stating that the party has strayed from its original goals and is leading Georgia away from its long-standing aim of integrating with Europe. She emphasized that Georgia has historically aligned itself with Europe and has always sought independence from dominating powers, particularly Russia.
The President condemned those who label Georgia's Western allies as a "war party" while remaining silent about Russia's occupation of 20% of Georgian territory. She argued that the current government is undermining Georgia's sovereignty and independence by being willing to make concessions to Russia and distancing the country from its traditional partners.
Zourabichvili also criticized GD Honorary Chairman Bidzina Ivanishvili for what she described as his antagonistic stance towards both Georgia's allies and its citizens. She condemned the party's threats to ban political parties and its push for a constitutional majority, as well as the Constitutional Court's defense of a law she believes jeopardizes Georgia's European aspirations.
Looking ahead to the elections, Zourabichvili urged the Georgian people to make their voices heard at the polls, stressing that the outcome of the vote is crucial for the country's stability. She expressed confidence in the electorate's ability to shape Georgia's future and called on international observers to closely monitor the election process.
The President also mentioned her efforts to work with pro-European political parties on a Georgian Charter aimed at meeting EU recommendations and advancing Georgia's bid to join the European Union. She vowed to advocate for the Charter with Georgia's international partners.
