Tamaz Daushvili, managing partner of “Dio,” says that the only path to lasting peace and development in Georgia is closer integration with the European Union and, ultimately, EU membership. Speaking on BMGTV’s program “Tsertili,” Daushvili emphasized he was expressing his views as a private citizen, since entrepreneurs in Georgia are now prohibited from engaging in public political activity. “Nothing has value if Georgia does not preserve its independence, democracy, and European path,” he stated, adding that the country is currently undergoing a major test of democracy.
In the interview, Daushvili congratulated citizens on Independence Day, calling it the most important date in modern Georgian history. He stressed that maintaining independence has historically been difficult for Georgia and urged especially young people to protect this achievement. Daushvili expressed confidence that today’s independence will be permanent and never lost.
Reflecting on Georgia’s political trajectory, Daushvili said the country is experiencing a difficult but familiar period of democratic challenges. Drawing a parallel with current tensions in the United States, he argued that even mature democracies face crises, so challenges in a young democracy like Georgia are not surprising. What matters, he said, is that no political force has openly rejected the democratic system, and elections remain intact. In this regional context, he believes the only sustainable strategy is to stay firmly on the European path.
Asked whether Georgia is genuinely moving toward the EU, Daushvili responded confidently: “We are still heading there - believe me.” He noted that more than 80% of the population supports a European future, and that this choice is enshrined in the Georgian constitution. Despite political tensions and anti-European rhetoric from some officials, Daushvili expressed hope that history will judge each government by the positive contributions it leaves behind. Ending on an optimistic note, he said: “Let’s put an end to pessimism - no one in Georgia needs it today.”
