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The News in Brief

Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Prepared by Messenger Staff

Georgian Prime Minister Attends Inauguration of Iran's New President Masoud Pezeshkian

The Prime Minister of Georgia, Irakli Kobakhidze, attended the inauguration of Masoud Pezeshkian as the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The ceremony took place in the Iranian Parliament, or Mejlis, in Tehran.

Before the official event, Kobakhidze met with Pezeshkian, congratulating him on his electoral victory and wishing him success in his new role.

Alongside Kobakhidze, Levan Davitashvili, the First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, was part of the Georgian delegation in Tehran.



Chairman of the Parliament Shalva Papuashvili Criticizes President's Lawsuit Against 'Foreign Agents' Law

Chairman of the Parliament Shalva Papuashvili has criticized President Salome Zourabichvili's recent lawsuit filed with the Constitutional Court to suspend the "Foreign Agents" law. Papuashvili stated that by applying to the Constitutional Court, Zourabichvili acknowledged its legitimacy, despite the court's previous verdict that she violated the Constitution. He argued that if Zourabichvili had political integrity, she should resign.

Papuashvili described the lawsuit as hypocritical, noting that the opposition and Zourabichvili had previously questioned the legitimacy of the Constitutional Court. He pointed out their inconsistency, stating, "Just a few months ago, they referred to the judges of the Constitutional Court with different epithets. Today, they turn to the same judges to find justice."

According to Papuashvili, the United National Movement strategically maintained Zourabichvili in her position, preventing her impeachment. He implied that there are underlying political motives behind their actions, saying, "The only reason why the impeachment did not take place is that the National Movement saved her and kept her in this position."



Giorgi Vashadze Accuses the Government of Misleading International Partners

Giorgi Vashadze, leader of the Unity Platform, criticized the Georgian government's approach to EU integration following a meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July 29. Vashadze accused the government of misleading international partners about fulfilling the nine steps required for EU accession, calling the behavior "rude" and "shameful".

"The position of the European Union is very clear, and it is very sad that the European integration process of Georgia is halted," Vashadze stated.

"Do you think they are small children that you can lie to that the 9 steps have been fulfilled? Or is the Foreign Minister not ashamed? I don't think there is such a precedent anywhere in the world."

He highlighted the European Union's clear stance and expressed concern over the stalled integration process under Georgian Dream's rule. Vashadze urged for a change in approach by October 26, emphasizing the need for honesty and integrity in dealings with the EU.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs' meeting with EU member state representatives concerned the implementation of the nine steps for Georgia's EU accession.