President Zourabichvili Condemns Georgian Government for Severing Ties with US Over Lugar Laboratory
By Liza Mchedlidze
Friday, August 9, 2024
Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili has strongly criticized the Georgian government following the suspension of US funding for the Lugar Laboratory. The laboratory, supported by American agencies such as the CDC and NIH, has been crucial in protecting public health in Georgia.
"The contribution of the Lugar Laboratory and American experts to the safety and security of our citizens cannot be measured. We can be nothing but thankful," Zourabichvili said.
She condemned the government's decision as a betrayal at a time when Georgia faces significant demographic challenges. "At a time when the country's demographic indicators are at a catastrophic level, when hundreds of thousands of people are leaving the country, breaking such an important link with America is a direct betrayal of the country."
The Lugar Laboratory has been vital in combating diseases like hepatitis, AIDS, swine influenza, and COVID-19. Zourabichvili warned that the government's decision puts Georgia at risk of being unprepared for future pandemics.
"Against the background of the increased threat of infectious epidemics in the world, the Georgian government dares and deliberately puts all those laboratories and programs in an extreme situation, without which we remain completely defenseless."
The President also highlighted the broader consequences of this decision, including reputational damage and the loss of decades-long ties between Georgia and the US. "It is not only about money, but also about reputational damage, severing decades of professional ties, and turning the back on the trust and cooperation established between the two countries."
She stressed the importance of continued collaboration for Georgia's future professionals. "Here we are also talking about the exchange of knowledge, training without which we cannot raise tomorrow's high-level professionals. Isolation is the enemy of science!"
Zourabichvili condemned the government's actions, warning they endanger Georgia's hard-won reputation as a reliable international partner. "It is unacceptable when your government deliberately and persistently destroys all areas of our success," Zourabichvili stated.'
