Georgian Parliament Speaker urges EU to end closed-off approach, engage in dialogue

Speaking about relations between Brussels and Tbilisi, the Georgian Parliament Speaker Shalva Papuashvili on Wednesday emphasised Georgia’s steadfast commitment to Europe’s true values, while criticising what he described as an unconstructive approach by some actors.

“We remain loyal to Europe’s genuine values. Yet we see that some, from their closed rooms, are brandishing swords and fighting imaginary enemies. They should calm down, return to dialogue, and speak directly with the Georgian people”, the Speaker said.

Papuashvili also reviewed Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s upcoming visit to Denmark, stating that it would offer the Georgian leader another opportunity to present the country's achievements.

“Our policy is one of dialogue, including at the international level. Unfortunately, Brussels has shown a rigid stance not only regarding Georgia, but also in relation to the war in Ukraine - in contrast to the United States, which strives to establish peace”, he continued.

He further criticised Brussels for adopting an unusual closure and a force-driven approach toward Georgia

“Brussels has an inappropriate and unusual closed-off attitude for Europe, and has chosen a tactic of speaking from a position of force regarding Georgia. We are always ready for dialogue and to participate in all formats, which is why it is welcome that the Prime Minister of Georgia will have the opportunity to speak once again about Georgia’s achievements. We are open to bold dialogue; Brussels remains closed because it knows it lacks solid arguments to justify its stance toward the Georgian people”, he concluded.

Kobakhidze will participate in the European Political Community (EPC) Summit, scheduled to take place on Thursday in Copenhagen.