Georgian PM on US House of Representatives’ subcommittee bill: we listen, respect, continue progress
Georgian PM Giorgi Gakharia says that the government respects the views of its partners and allies. Photo: Imedi TV.
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Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia has responded to the US House of Representatives subcommittee bill, stating that ‘international partners are Georgia's closest allies.’
The bill proposed by the House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Nita Lowey stipulates that 15 per cent of $132 million in assistance may be withheld until the US Secretary of State determines and reports that the Georgian government is taking effective steps to strengthen democratic institutions, combat corruption and ensure that the rule of law in the private sector is consistent with international, recognised standards.
The PM says that the bill includes ‘some unpleasant notes,’ adding that many ‘so-called Georgian politicians are trying to engage our strategic partners in internal political rivalry.’
Our democratic and Euro-Atlantic integration progress face no threats. Our country is progressing on a daily basis and our international partners know this very well. As it appears, the pre-election, internal ‘high temperature’ has become palpable outside the country as well. We have seen the same interpretations regarding the recent constitutional changes. However, after the adoption of the changes we have been largely praised. Our international partners have once again seen that we are moving ahead. The parliamentary elections are coming and we should conduct them in full line with top democratic standards,” Gakharia said.
Gakharia stated that Georgia is attentive to every remark and statement made by the country’s international partners and takes them into account.
Unfortunately, some so-called politicians are trying to engage our partners in internal political rivalry. This is bad and affects state interests in the end. That is why we should all calm down. Democratically-held elections are in the interests of the country,” Gakharia said.
The opposition says that the bill 'is warning' for the Georgian Dream government.