Georgian FM expresses concern over accreditation denial of three Georgian TV stations at CoE ministerial event

Georgian foreign minister Maka Botchorishvili on Friday said that the format of the Council of Europe ministerial meeting provides Georgia with one of the best opportunities to discuss issues of national concern with participating states.

In her remarks, Botchorishvili emphasised that issues related to Georgia’s foreign policy priorities, particularly security challenges, remain central to the country’s agenda.

The minister noted that it is important for fellow foreign ministers to be properly informed about ongoing developments involving Georgia, including processes in the country’s Russian-occupied regions.

She also addressed what she described as differing attitudes among Council of Europe member states toward Georgia, further pointing out that it is impossible for the Georgian government not to respond to such approaches, especially when discussions involve democratic standards and double standards in relation to Georgia.

Botchorishvili expressed concern over the accreditation denial of three Georgian television stations at the ministerial event, saying they were unable to carry out their professional duties or cover the meeting.

She called the incident “notable” and said it should be known to all member states, particularly in the context of discussions on media freedom and freedom of expression.

She further stressed that governments elected by the people represent the legitimate interests of their countries and that electoral legitimacy remains a key foundation of democracy. At the same time, she criticised what she described as inconsistent approaches by some member states, particularly regarding their stance toward Georgia’s government and domestic political dynamics.

Referring to broader democratic principles, she argued that it is contradictory to speak about democratic backsliding while simultaneously supporting radical groups that do not participate in elections or accept their results.

Botchorishvili concluded that such issues should not be avoided in international discussions, adding that the Council of Europe forum is not only for agreeable topics but also for addressing critical and sensitive matters openly.