President Zourabichvili Urges Youth and Diaspora to Vote for Georgia's European Future
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, March 8, 2024
A year has passed since the protests against Russian legislation, and President of Georgia, Salome Zourabichvili, emphasized that the achievement of candidate status is thanks to the efforts of the youth demonstrators.
In her speech, President Zourabichvili stressed the importance of the youth's active involvement, asserting that today, the direction of the country's future is determined not by street demonstrations but by participation in elections. Zourabichvili highlighted that their participation is crucial not only for shaping the country's future but also for their own personal aspirations.
"What I have to say to young people is that what they stood for on the street last year was very important, and actually, a large part of the decision that was made at the end of the year was thanks to them. They know this well; they felt their power, and the same should happen this year if we want to achieve a result, that is, the opening of negotiations. Their active participation is crucial. Today, our future is not decided on the street; it is decided in the elections, and their participation is crucial for them personally too," Zourabichvili stated.
Additionally, the Georgian President emphasized the significance of the diaspora's participation in the elections. Zourabichvili underscored that this election transcends individual preferences or party affiliations; rather, it represents a choice for Europe, similar to a referendum.
"I would also like to emphasize the importance of diaspora participation in the elections.
This election is not merely the choice of any individual or party; rather, it represents the choice of Europe, akin to a referendum.
I think that those who live in the diaspora and are beginning to have hope that this country will become promising, that it will become part of Europe, and that the way back [home] will be opened for them, it is also their duty to participate in the elections, which I know is difficult, there are many restrictions on this path, and we are trying and working with non-governmental organizations in order to facilitate participation in elections.
I will be involved with many organizations abroad next week. It's everyone's job to tell those we know abroad to get a ticket and come, or to mobilize on the ground as much as they can. The fate of your country is in the ballot box," the President stated.
