Shaheen and Turner Reaffirm Support for Georgia, Call for Democratic Reforms
By Liza Mchedlidze
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
After visiting Georgia, US Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Congressman Mike Turner released a statement highlighting the United States' strong support for Georgia's independence and democratic future. However, they also voiced concerns about recent political developments.
"With growing threats from authoritarian nations like Russia, which invaded Georgia 16 years ago, it was crucial to show our unwavering support for the Georgian people's right to shape their own future," said Senator Shaheen. She mentioned that during their meetings with Georgian officials and civil society groups, they reaffirmed their support for Georgia's desire to join Europe. But she also made it clear that the US is worried about signs of declining democracy in the country. "We won't sit back amid democratic backsliding and false statements targeted toward the United States," Shaheen added.
Shaheen stressed the need for fair elections and urged the Georgian government to repeal the controversial foreign agents law. "We must see free and fair elections and efforts to repeal the foreign agents law that's harming Georgia's path to EU membership. The first step to get back on track must come from the Georgian government, and we're waiting for their proposal," she said.
Congressman Mike Turner echoed these concerns, noting that the U.S.-Georgian relationship, historically strong, is now at risk due to recent actions that go against democratic values. "The US.-Georgian relationship has been one of the strongest in the region, but recent developments have raised serious concerns in the U.S. and Europe," Turner said. He emphasized that the US stance on these issues would remain consistent, no matter which administration is in power. "U.S. policy won't change regardless of who's in office," he added.
Turner also emphasized the importance of the upcoming parliamentary elections in Georgia, calling for them to be conducted fairly and transparently. "It's crucial that the elections in October are free, fair, and transparent for both the Georgian people and international observers," he said. Turner thanked Senator Shaheen for her strong commitment to the US-Georgian relationship and for inviting him to join her on this important visit.
