The News in Brief
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
Prepared by Messenger Staff
Further Steps Not Ruled Out as US is Looking Over Relations with Georgia, Miller Says
US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed deep concern over Georgia's political direction, which is moving the country away from its Euro-Atlantic trajectory. In response to the situation, the US diplomat stated that the forcible registration of organisations as foreign agents is concerning.
"We are concerned about the enforcement of this legislation against organisations that have not voluntarily registered, including critically important civil society organisations and independent media."
As part of a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, the U.S. has already implemented visa restrictions on dozens of Georgian citizens, including members of the Georgian Dream party, parliamentarians, and law enforcement officials. Additionally, $95 million in aid benefiting the Georgian government has been suspended. The review process continues, with the diplomat warning, "Further steps are not ruled out."
Former MEP Anna Fotyga Stresses Government's Role in Georgia's EU Accession
At the 8th Tbilisi International Conference, former European Parliamentarian Anna Fotyga emphasised that Georgia's EU accession process hinges on the actions of its government, not just public sentiment. While acknowledging the Georgian people's strong pro-European stance, Fotyga noted, "Society does not negotiate; therefore, society must realize the importance of representative government if it wants to move in the European direction."
Fotyga expressed concern over the current situation in Georgia but clarified that sanctions are not an appropriate response to rhetoric. She also criticised the influence of oligarchs, stating, "One person, an oligarch, is harmful to the economy and social order," and urged Georgians to address this issue themselves.
Further Steps Not Ruled Out as US is Looking Over Relations with Georgia, Miller Says
"We are concerned about the enforcement of this legislation against organisations that have not voluntarily registered, including critically important civil society organisations and independent media."
As part of a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, the U.S. has already implemented visa restrictions on dozens of Georgian citizens, including members of the Georgian Dream party, parliamentarians, and law enforcement officials. Additionally, $95 million in aid benefiting the Georgian government has been suspended. The review process continues, with the diplomat warning, "Further steps are not ruled out."
Former MEP Anna Fotyga Stresses Government's Role in Georgia's EU Accession
Fotyga expressed concern over the current situation in Georgia but clarified that sanctions are not an appropriate response to rhetoric. She also criticised the influence of oligarchs, stating, "One person, an oligarch, is harmful to the economy and social order," and urged Georgians to address this issue themselves.