EU Leaders Express Concerns Over Georgia’s Government
After a meeting in Brussels, the European Council released its conclusions on the situation in Georgia. The EU leaders expressed serious concerns about the government’s actions, which they say are not aligned with the values and principles of the European Union.
The EU is worried about the violence against peaceful protesters, politicians, and media representatives. The Council calls on the Georgian authorities to respect the right to freedom of assembly and expression, and to refrain from using force. Any acts of violence must be investigated, and those responsible held accountable.
Despite this, the European Council still supports Georgia’s aspirations to join the EU. However, they make it clear that this support is conditional on the Georgian government changing its course of action. If the government reverses its current path, the EU will consider continuing with Georgia’s integration into the Union.
In related news, several European leaders spoke out about the situation in Georgia ahead of their meeting in Brussels. They expressed concerns about the country’s anti-democratic trajectory and highlighted their support for protesters against the Georgian Dream party’s U-turn from the EU.
The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kalas, emphasized the importance of maintaining pressure on the Georgian government to stop using violence against protesters and oppressing the opposition. She said that the EU will discuss further steps to take in response to this situation.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola made an emotional appeal, emphasizing the rising tendency of authoritarianism in Georgia. She urged the EU not to abandon the people of Georgia, who are continuing to demonstrate their support for European integration.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda reiterated his country’s unwavering support for Georgia’s European aspirations, stressing that the Georgian people want to join the EU. He said that the current government should not take away this dream from the majority of the population.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo also spoke out, emphasizing the importance of continued engagement with Georgia despite growing external influences. He stressed that the EU must support pro-EU forces in Georgia and not create an image that it is turning its back on the country.
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