Following a meeting with the Foreign Affairs Committee chairs from eight EU countries, including Lithuanian Vice-Speaker Žygimantas Pavilionis and German Bundestag Committee chair Michael Roth, Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili expressed her concern over Georgia’s current political crisis and what she described as lost opportunities.
In her remarks, Zourabichvili highlighted the visit of the EU delegation as a strong signal of European backing, acknowledging the role of these European allies in Georgia’s progress.
Reflecting on Georgia’s achievements, the President emphasized the significance of receiving EU candidate status in December 2023, crediting it to the unwavering support of Georgia’s European partners.
“As I reflect on our progress and the challenges we currently face, I feel a deep sense of loss. However, this opportunity is not lost—we must work to reclaim it alongside our allies. Their visit, during a time when Georgia is navigating a deep political crisis, is another powerful expression of European support. Europe has not turned its back; it continues to believe in Georgia, in the European spirit of our nation, and in the commitment of the Georgian people—a commitment that has been consistently demonstrated over the past 33 years.
Whenever our European principles or the hope for a European future seemed at risk, the people of Georgia have come together to defend them. Many have spent nearly 30 years protesting against any governmental deviation from democratic principles. This dedication is a testament to the enduring European values held by the Georgian people,” she stated.
Zourabichvili criticized the recent elections, which she described as manipulated by a single-party government. “This is a country with a truly European and democratic society, yet it lacks a democratic government,” she said, describing the elections as “rigged by a single party.” She stressed that this manipulation has led Georgia into a political crisis.
“As a result, we are on the brink of a crisis. Based on statements from the Central Election Commission’s head, the outcome is predictable—there will be no surprises here. This crisis is looming, but our friends are here to work with us, finding solutions for Georgia to emerge stronger. In time, we will return to new elections, held fairly, so that Georgia may have a legitimate parliament, government, and president. This is our path—the path of stability, democracy, and alignment with Europe. There is no other path for Georgia, and our friends here share this conviction with us,” she added.
