EU Countries Reject Georgian PM's Claims, Deny Support for Georgian Government's Actions
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
In a briefing at the government administration, Georgian Dream's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze thanked Hungary, Slovakia, Italy, Spain, and Romania for allegedly opposing some members of the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) who called for sanctions against Georgian Dream officials. Kobakhidze framed these countries as defenders of the Georgian people, claiming they opposed measures that would penalize Georgian officials for their role in the country's recent political crisis.
However, Italy, Romania, and Spain have rejected Kobakhidze's statements, asserting that their positions have been misrepresented. Italy, in particular, reaffirmed its support for EU sanctions against those responsible for the violence and suppression of protests in Georgia, aligning with the proposal put forward by EU High Representative/Vice President Josep Borrell. While other member states did not approve the sanctions due to a lack of consensus, Italy made it clear that it continues to condemn the violence that has taken place in recent weeks. Italy also reiterated its stance on supporting the suspension of the diplomatic visa facilitation agreement for Georgian officials, a move approved by the FAC in response to the Georgian government's recent actions.
"The government of Georgia has presented a false narrative of our discussions," Italy's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. "We have been consistent in our condemnation of the violence in Georgia and continue to back sanctions to hold those responsible accountable. The suspension of diplomatic visa agreements is a necessary step to demonstrate the EU's commitment to its values and the protection of the Georgian people's democratic rights."
Romania, too, rejected Kobakhidze's portrayal of internal EU discussions, expressing disappointment over the misrepresentation of their position. The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its deep concern over the Georgian government's decision to halt EU accession negotiations and its violent repression of peaceful protests. Romania emphasized the need for a unified and firm EU response to safeguard Georgia's democratic future and ensure the protection of human rights. Romania made it clear that the Georgian government's actions contradict its European integration goals and undermine democratic values.
"We are deeply disappointed by the inaccurate presentation of our position," Romania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. "We remain committed to supporting Georgia's democratic aspirations, but the violent repression and the suspension of EU accession talks are deeply troubling. We will continue to urge the EU to act decisively in response to these developments."
Spain also rejected Kobakhidze's claims, reaffirming its grave concern about the situation in Georgia. Spain has been outspoken in its condemnation of the government's crackdown on civil rights and its role in spreading disinformation. Spain expressed strong support for the decisions made by the FAC, particularly regarding sanctions and measures to combat disinformation campaigns that undermine democracy. Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that protecting civil liberties and opposing disinformation is a matter of paramount importance for the EU.
"Spain has been clear in expressing its concerns about civil rights violations in Georgia," Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. "We fully support the decisions adopted by the FAC and stand firm in opposing any actions that threaten the integrity of democratic institutions and freedoms in Georgia."
