Georgian PM: President’s invitation to European Parliament “small performance”

Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Tuesday dismissed the European Parliament’s invitation to President Salome Zourabichvili as a “small performance” with “no real impact” on the country’s political landscape, amid ongoing protests against the Government’s suspension of European Union accession talks. 

Speaking at a press briefing, Kobakhidze claimed Zourabichvili’s potential address to the body would be “theatrical”, comparing it to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s speeches.

She should stand up, like Zelenskyy, and end her speech with an ovation. Of course, specific officials and politicians will not be able to influence the development of events in our country with such simple performances”, he pledged. 

EP President Roberta Metsola on Monday expressed solidarity with Georgian citizens, who she said were “protesting for their European future”, following the Government's decision to suspend the EU talks until 2028 last month.

In her address, the official further condemned the “use of force against peaceful demonstrators”, calling such actions “incompatible with Georgia’s EU path” and urged “decisive measures” from the bloc, including sanctions.

We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you”, Metsola said, emphasising the Parliament’s support for Georgian citizens and announcing ongoing discussions with Zourabichvili about her participation in a session. 

She added “we are discussing with her how best to do this, what format will be needed”.