Parliament official: if anything can shake pro-Western sentiment in Georgia, it is “irresponsible,hostile” actions of certain EU officials

Davit Matikashvili, an MP from the ruling Georgian Dream party and Chair of the Georgian Parliament’s Committee on Procedural Issues and Rules, on Saturday criticised certain EU officials, stating that their interference in Georgia's internal affairs could weaken pro-Western sentiment rather than strengthen it.

Matikashvili’s comments came after renowned American professor Jeffrey Sachs addressed recent political developments in Georgia, arguing that the involvement of certain MEPs and European politicians was counterproductive to the country's interests.

In his remarks, Matikashvili highlighted that participation in anti-government rallies and involvement in radicalisation efforts damaged Georgia's relations with the EU.

“Jeffrey Sachs' assessments can be considered particularly accurate regarding our country. This politician and analyst tries to provide a proper evaluation and appropriate responses to the problems in Georgia. It is evident that certain EU officials, Members of the European Parliament, or officials from European states, by participating in anti-Government rallies in our country and attending certain trainings where destruction and radicalisation are openly discussed, are harming our relations”, he said.

The Parliament official further noted that the Georgian Government had always assessed such interference adequately, and Sachs’ recent statements from high-level European platforms validated these concerns.

“If anything can damage and undermine pro-Western sentiment in Georgia, it is the irresponsible and hostile behaviour of these officials. Our Government has always assessed this situation adequately, and as you can see, similar evaluations are now being voiced from high platforms in Europe, which are absolutely correct”, Matikashvili concluded.

Renowned American professor Jeffrey Sachs on Friday addressed recent political developments in Georgia during discussions held at the European Parliament.

Sachs expressed concern over the latest events in the country, emphasising their negative impact on Georgia’s security and stability.