Weimar Triangle Foreign Ministers Call for Support of Georgia's European Aspirations
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, October 11, 2024
The Foreign Ministers of the Weimar Triangle-Germany, France, and Poland-issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to the democratic and European aspirations of the Georgian people. They expressed deep concern over the actions taken by the Georgian government, which they believe have effectively stalled the country's EU accession process, as recognized by the European Council on June 27.
The statement highlighted several troubling developments, including the implementation of the controversial "Transparency Law," which stigmatizes non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that receive over 20% of their funding from abroad, branding them as foreign agents. Additionally, they condemned recent legislative amendments that restrict the rights of LGBTI individuals and noted attacks against civil society organizations and independent journalists.
The Foreign Ministers condemned the escalating aggressive rhetoric directed at the EU and its member states, emphasizing that the EU will not accept the dissemination of misleading narratives regarding its policies by Georgian authorities. They urged the Georgian government to change its course, warning that the future of EU-Georgia relations is at stake.
As Georgia approaches its parliamentary elections, the Weimar Triangle ministers called for free and fair elections that adhere to the recommendations from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), ensuring a safe environment for electoral campaigning.
The ministers expressed hope that the Georgian government will recommit to implementing the reform priorities associated with its EU candidate status. They reiterated their readiness to support Georgian society in its pursuit of a European future, while also affirming their commitment to upholding Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
