US Ambassador: Georgian Gov’t does not pressure media

United States (US) Ambassador to Georgia Ian Kelly says the current Georgian Government does not pressure the media. 

The US diplomat told this to Georgian newspaper Rezonansi when he spoke about the importance of free media, specifically during the election period. 

The role of the media is crucial in the building of a democratic state and the role [of the media] increases significantly during the election period,” Kelly said. 

The Ambassador stressed the balanced and unbiased information provided by the media ensured voters were informed to make the best decision at the ballot box. 

Media should do its best to retain a balanced and free editorial policy. In the case of Rustavi 2 [a Georgian private broadcaster] there was a threat that damaged its main goal as a change in management might have affected the oppositional channel’s editorial policy,” Kelly said.

At the time, several times, we voiced our concern over the issue. When it comes to imposing pressure on media, I do not believe the current Georgian Government does this,” Kelly added. 

The diplomat said there were various reports provided by influential foreign organisations "that the media is quite free in Georgia”. 

But of course this is not enough and more should be done in this regard,” Kelly stated. 

Moving to this year’s Parliamentary race Kelly stressed Georgia should take another step forward and conduct the election period in the highest possible level.

I reiterate the role of the free media in the [election] process is very high, as it should provide impartial information about all election players.  We will be independent observers of the elections with other organisations,” Kelly said. 

On another note the US official commented on Georgia’s relationship with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). He believed Georgia would become a member of the Alliance when NATO was ready for this. 

Kelly stressed the organisation had much to consider when discussing expansion, as he worked for NATO for three years. He said it was challenging for all 28 members of the Alliance to reach a consensus, while its strength lied