Lavrov Defends Georgia's Foreign Agents Law, Criticizes Western Influence on LGBT Issues and Abkhazian Dispute
By Liza Mchedlidze
Monday, September 9, 2024
In an interview with Russian media outlet RBK, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov defended the adoption of the Foreign Agents law by Georgia's ruling Georgian Dream party. He echoed the Georgian government's stance, asserting that countries like the U.S., Poland, and France, among others, have stricter versions of such laws. Lavrov also criticized the West for allegedly imposing an "LGBT agenda" on Georgia and commented on the situation in occupied Abkhazia.
Lavrov claimed that the current actions of the Georgian government reflect their realization of national identity and Orthodox Christian values, which he argued are being threatened by the West's push for liberal democratic principles. He added that many Georgians are dissatisfied with the imposition of Western values, particularly regarding LGBT issues.
He expressed admiration for "Georgians' strong connection to their history," noting Georgia's cultural significance during the Soviet era. Lavrov also accused the West of "reproaching" Georgians for their efforts to preserve their historical and cultural heritage.
Touching on past negotiations, Lavrov referred to the 2005 agreement regarding the withdrawal of Russia's military bases from Georgia, in which Salome Zurabishvili, now Georgia's president, was his counterpart. He blamed the former United National Movement party and ex-President Mikheil Saakashvili for failing to fulfill obligations, such as the creation of an anti-terrorist center involving Russian participation. Lavrov linked this to broader concerns about the reliability of negotiations with governments aligned with the West.
Lavrov further claimed that the Georgian example illustrates how many countries are realizing that "the West's push for liberal democracy" conflicts with the traditional values and heritage of Georgia. He accused the West of trying to undermine these traditions in order to maintain global dominance.
Regarding the recent suspension of funds to occupied Abkhazia by Moscow, following the de-facto authorities' refusal to pass the controversial "Apartment Law", Lavrov denied any worsening of relations between the Kremlin and the region. However, he stressed the need for both parties to uphold agreements signed between Moscow and Sokhumi, which outline obligations ratified by both parliaments. Lavrov emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance in fulfilling these commitments, stating that the "Abkhazian friends" are well aware of this.
