**Tbilisi Mayor Speaks Out Against “Unacceptable Tone” in Council of Europe Debates**
In a bold statement, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze has spoken out against the tone used by some representatives at the upcoming debates on Georgia at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. According to Kaladze, this tone is “categorically unacceptable” and reflects a disturbing trend towards treating Georgia as a vassal state rather than an independent nation.
The statement was made during a meeting with journalists where Kaladze emphasized that Georgia is not looking for masters but rather friends who can partner with it on equal terms. He repeated the government’s stance that they are ready to deepen relations and cooperate with other countries, but only if it does not compromise Georgia’s sovereignty and interests.
**A Sovereign Nation’s Rights**
Kaladze’s words carry significant weight as Tbilisi Mayor and a prominent figure in Georgian politics. By emphasizing the need for “friends, not masters,” he is sending a clear message that Georgia will not be treated as a subservient state by other nations. This stance reflects a deeper understanding of the country‘s history and its struggle for independence.
**Implications for Georgia-EU Relations**
The comments come at a time when Georgia is seeking closer ties with the European Union, including potential membership in the EU. Kaladze’s statement suggests that Tbilisi will not compromise on sovereignty or national interests in pursuit of these goals. This could have significant implications for the trajectory of Georgian-EU relations and may influence how Brussels engages with Georgia in the future.
**Analysis**
The tone used by some Council of Europe representatives towards Georgia is indeed concerning, as it raises questions about their willingness to respect the country’s sovereignty and independence. Kaladze’s response underscores a commitment to upholding these principles, even in the face of pressure from outside forces.
By reiterating that Georgia seeks partners rather than masters, Kaladze has positioned his country firmly on the side of self-determination and cooperation based on mutual respect. As the debates at the Council of Europe unfold, this stance is likely to be a defining aspect of Georgia’s engagement with international partners.
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