Prepared by Messenger Staff
Hungary Vows to Veto EU Sanctions Against Georgian Officials
Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjártó announced on December 9 that Hungary would veto any European Union proposal to sanction Georgian government officials, following a proposal to place the Georgian Minister of the Interior and two high-ranking police officers on the EU sanctions list. Speaking at a joint press conference with Georgian Foreign Minister Maka Botchorishvili, Szijjártó stated, "Hungary is completely against the fact that Georgian government officials should be put on a sanction list."
Szijjártó expressed Hungary's strong opposition to what he described as the EU's undemocratic approach toward Georgia, citing the Georgian government's recent controversial victory in elections. He claimed that if the opposition had won, Brussels would have lauded the country's democratic progress. However, he argued, "Now that a conservative party has won, they are doing everything in their power to dismiss and ignore the will of the people."
The Hungarian foreign minister also criticized the European Parliament's recent resolution, which he said addressed Georgia in a "humiliating manner". He pointed to a broader pattern of actions from the EU's liberal mainstream, which he claimed was undermining Georgia's European integration efforts. "We believe this approach is not only harmful but also dangerously misguided," he added.
Szijjártó reaffirmed Hungary's commitment to supporting Georgia's European aspirations, stating that unlike Brussels, Hungary respects the decision of the Georgian people and their sovereign right to determine their country's future. He declared that Hungary would veto any EU proposals targeting Georgian officials, calling the sanctions proposal "outrageous and unsupported by any evidence."
President Zourabichvili Honors 34 Journalists for Their Dedication and Bravery
On December 9, President Salome Zourabichvili awarded medals to 34 Georgian journalists in recognition of their civic dedication, responsibility, and personal bravery. The ceremony took place at the Orbeliani Palace.
Before presenting the awards, Zourabichvili addressed the media, expressing gratitude for their commitment. She emphasized that journalists are at the forefront of defending the country's identity, values, language, and beliefs, describing their role as vital to the future of Georgia.
"You stand guard over this country. You are the ones who have not only taken up the camera and microphone but also the future and destiny of this nation. For this, you will be remembered in the history of Georgia as heroes of today's era," said Zourabichvili. She acknowledged the courage required to report from dangerous locations, where journalists often face physical risks and emotional challenges.
The president highlighted the importance of the media as a window through which the public learns about events unfolding in the country. "If it weren't for you, those who cannot be at the protests would not know what's happening. Your presence is crucial to ensuring that the people of Georgia remain informed about the fight against injustice," she noted.
