Georgia’s ruling party official accuses critics of double standards after Canada launches foreign influence registry

Irakli Kirtskhalia, the Chair of the ruling Georgian Dream party faction in the legislative body, on Wednesday commented on Canada’s launch of a foreign influence registry, saying the move is another clear example of “the use of double standards toward Georgia”.

In his remarks, Kirtskhalia noted that the legislation adopted in Georgia was aimed at protecting the country’s national interests and security.

“We adopted all laws that served the best interests and security of our country, and then it turned out that everyone needs the legislative framework that operates in our country. Apparently, Canada’s security comes first, while thinking about Georgia’s security is supposedly a betrayal of the country, according to this agent rhetoric”, he said.

“This is yet another clear confirmation of the double standards and lack of standards with which they approach us. These are the people who today, wrapped in the mantle of democracy, act according to the best Soviet traditions”, Kirtskhalia concluded.

Canada’s foreign influence registry has entered into force.

According to media reports, the new registry was launched under legislation on foreign influence adopted two years ago.