Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, accused the West of trying influence the course of Georgia’s election campaign. He also asserted that Russia will not interfere with Georgian internal affairs. “As far as the elections are concerned, it’s none of our concern.” Peskov said that he saw “blatant attempts” by Western countries to exert pressure on the current Georgian government and to influence the election campaign directly, without disguise.
Gareth Ward spoke to Interpressnews about the UK‘s concerns regarding the “democratic backsliding” and anti-Western rhetoric of the ruling Georgian Dream Party. He said that the UK had decided to freeze bilateral ministerial discussions–the Wardrop Dialogue–for the first time in its 10-year history, not hold Defense Staff meetings, and suspend a cybersecurity program.
Josep Borrell, the EU’s top diplomat, said during a press conference on October 14 that recent actions by Georgia’s ruling parties “signal an authoritarian shift,” confirming the EU Council had discussed Georgia and Moldova. He also stated that Georgia’s EU membership process is de facto suspended, adding that the forthcoming parliamentary elections will be an important test for the country’s democracy and EU path.
On October 11, the U.N. Human Rights Council passed a resolution entitled “Cooperation with Georgia” calling for immediate and unrestricted entry for international human rights monitors to the occupied Abkhazia region and Tskhinvali region. It also requested that the U.N. Human Rights High Commissioner provide updates on the resolution at future sessions, and continue to provide technical assistance through the Office for the High Commissioner in Tbilisi.
Salome Zurabishvili, the President of Georgia, wrote on her Facebook profile that schools ask children for their parents’ numbers. This is a violation to personal data. The Education Ministry denied President Zurabishvili‘s claims, stating that schools collect personal data from children for specific purposes. According to the Ministry’s claims, the President spreads “disinformation” in an attempt to discredit the education system.
Anna Luhrmann, German State Minister for Europe and Climate told reporters that Germany supports Georgia in its EU accession process. However, “this does NOT refer to the current Georgian Government, which is causing obstacles on the road to the European Union.” These statements are of no value to us. Kakha Kaladze (Tbilisi Mayor, Secretary General of the ruling Party) said, “I don’t know this lady; she’s just an ordinary “Kubilius”, dressed as a woman.
Peter Fischer, the German ambassador to Georgia, posted on X, “Someone scored an Own Goal today.” This post prompted a response from Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze who stated that Kaladze, and the entire GD Team, will win another Champions League at the end of October. He also noted that Georgians, as well foreign supporters of “collective UNM,” will be defeated.
The Data of the Day
Geostat, the National Statistics Service, published on October 15 express data showing that the external merchandise (excluding non-declared) trade of Georgia increased by 3,7% between January-September 2024 in comparison to the same period the previous year. The amount of USD 16,779.0 millions was reported. Geostat reports that Georgia’s external trade has seen a 4.1% rise in exports to USD 4.787 billion. Imports have risen by 3.6%, totaling USD 11.992 billion.
The Daily Beat: Monday, 9 October
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