Georgian Parliament Speaker: relations with EU, US will reset once Western partners “adhere to European values”

Shalva Papuashvili, the Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, on Monday said relations between Georgia and its European and American partners would “reset once they commit to upholding European values rather than obscure political or clan-based interests". 

Speaking with the press, the official claimed the Georgian Government had “not instigated any conflicts” and was “waiting for a constructive approach” from its allies.

Addressing “external interference” in Georgian politics, he pointed to incidents involving Lithuanian politicians who he claimed had “campaigned against” the ruling Georgian Dream party during the October 26 general elections. 

Lithuanian politicians meddled in our elections, openly campaigning against the GD. They interfered in our elections. Have we interfered in anyone else’s?”, he asked. 

The Speaker further noted “some European politicians have used derogatory language toward the Georgian Government”, also asking “are we the ones doing this?”.

Papuashvili claimed the GD authorities “only react when provoked”, adding “we are not the ones initiating anything”. 

The official stressed “once they stop, we will not respond either. When someone calls you a ‘nightmare’, it does not matter whether you are Georgian or not – it is natural to respond appropriately. When we are insulted, our response will be immediate”.