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The News in Brief

Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Prepared by Messenger Staff

Georgian Parliament Chairman Shalva Papuashvili Calls for Prompt Removal of Sanctions on Judges



The Chairman of the Parliament of Georgia, Shalva Papuashvili, spoke about the imposition of sanctions on Georgian judges by the US State Department. Papuashvili expressed that it has been two months since they started requesting evidence, but no evidence has been provided so far. He stated that the decision made without any evidence holds no significance for them and is merely a political decision.

Papuashvili urged for the swift removal of these sanctions, emphasizing that it is unjustifiable to target an individual without any evidence, particularly when the individual in question is a judge.

"I call for these sanctions to be lifted as soon as possible, because one cannot attack a person without evidence. Especially when it comes to the judge," said Papuashvili.

Furthermore, when discussing the overall state of the judicial system, Papuashvili highlighted that the Georgian justice system has successfully withstood all challenges and examinations, demonstrating its integrity and competence.

"Recall all the so-called cases of high importance, such as the Saakashvili issue, the Rustavi 2 matter, and so forth. The courts were subjected to discredit, but let's not forget how it all concluded in Strasbourg. That is how all these cases will ultimately conclude because they are purely political engagements and attempts to discredit the Georgian justice system. Georgian justice has dignifiedly passed all tests, and in every instance where it was claimed to be a political decision, it has been proven at the court level, ensuring the protection of human rights, that it was manipulation, disinformation, and a campaign to discredit," the Chairman stated.



Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Gharibashvili Holds Meetings with Parliament Speakers from Austria, Czech Republic, and Slovakia



Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Gharibashvili met with the President of the National Council of Austria,Wolfgang Sobotka, the President of the Chamber of Deputies of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, Markéta Pekarová Adamová, and the Speaker of the National Council of the Slovak Republic, Boris Kollár.

As per the Prime Minister's press service, the discussions encompassed the amicable relations and extensive cooperation between Georgia and the Republics of Austria, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. The significance of enhancing bilateral ties was underscored, along with the importance of the parliament chairpersons from these countries visiting Georgia under the Slavkov format, which serves as a demonstration of their support.

The government leader expressed optimism that the political and practical backing from these countries would assist Georgia in its upcoming steps towards EU membership. Special emphasis was placed on Georgia's anticipation of attaining candidate status by year-end, while consistently and transparently fulfilling the 12 established priorities. Furthermore, it was emphasized that Georgia continues to be a dependable partner and a security ally of the European Union.