Prepared by Messenger Staff
UNM Leader Pavlenishvili Says Repressive Laws Must Be Repealed for European Integration
Irakli Pavlenishvili, Deputy Secretary General of the United National Movement (UNM), has called on the Georgian government to repeal what he describes as "repressive" legislation, in response to a recent OSCE/ODIHR conclusion. In comments to journalists, he argued that withdrawing these laws is the only viable path for Georgia's European integration.
Pavlenishvili said that the amendments to Georgia's administrative and criminal codes, which ODIHR criticized, constitute a serious restriction on civil and political rights. "When Bidzina Ivanishvili and his gang restrict fundamental civil and political rights through so-called legislative amendments, it cannot remain without a response," he said.
He added that limiting freedom of expression is incompatible with European norms. "Limiting freedom of expression cannot be considered a European norm or value," he told reporters, referring to both national and international pressure, including from OSCE/ODIHR.
At the same time, Pavlenishvili expressed pessimism about achieving this change under Georgia's current leadership. "Of course, it was expected that such conclusions would be made. The only way, for our country and for our progress in terms of legislative alignment with European integration, is for this repressive legislation to be withdrawn," he said. "When we talk about expectations, naturally it is impossible to be optimistic regarding Ivanishvili . Positive change will happen only in one case, if this authoritarian regime is dismantled."
Pavlenishvili's remarks come in the wake of an urgent opinion published by OSCE/ODIHR. The international body expressed concern over recent amendments to Georgia's Code of Administrative Offenses and Criminal Code, warning that they may undermine the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
Georgian Dream Government Defends Eagle Hills Project
The Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has reaffirmed the Georgian government's commitment to the Eagle Hills development project, stating that the government "takes full responsibility for the implementation of the project in full compliance with Georgia's national interests." He emphasized that the project is designed to bring economic benefits while safeguarding the country's demographic and strategic priorities.
Speaking to journalists, Kobakhidze highlighted the project's potential to create approximately 24,000 temporary and 8,000 permanent jobs. He also noted that the development is expected to generate additional revenue for the state budget and stimulate tourism growth in Tbilisi and the Adjara region.
"The state has nothing to hide from its citizens and is ready to answer all questions regarding the contract," Kobakhidze said. He added that the general development plan will be approved transparently and in accordance with Georgian legislation. While parts of the contract are classified as commercial secrets, he stressed that this is standard practice in large-scale projects and does not limit public oversight.
Kobakhidze stressed that the government will only approve projects that protect Georgia's national and demographic interests and support economic progress. "Projects will only move forward if they promote economic development and prosperity for the population," he said.
Deputy Minister of Economy Irakli Nadareishvili reinforced the Prime Minister's remarks, saying the agreement "fully safeguards the state's interests" and that Georgia will retain a 33 percent ownership stake in the joint venture with Eagle Hills.
The government's statement comes amid public discussion about the scale and impact of the USD 6.5 billion investment. Officials emphasized that the project aligns with Georgia's strategic goals and is designed to generate tangible benefits for citizens, while ensuring that national interests are fully protected.
Kobakhidze concluded by saying that the government is committed to transparency and dialogue with the public. "We are ready to answer any questions regarding all the principle issues of the contract," he said, reaffirming the administration's position that Eagle Hills will advance both economic development and Georgia's broader national objectives.
