Maka Bochorishvili, Foreign Affairs Minister under the ruling Georgian Dream government, has rejected claims of anti-European rhetoric, stating that Georgia remains committed to joining the European Union, despite criticisms from European politicians and domestic opposition figures.
Speaking at a session of the Temporary Investigative Commission of the Georgian Parliament, which is examining foreign policy actions taken by political leaders between 2012 and 2025, Bochorishvili defended the government’s position and messaging.
“We have somehow romanticized everything and we want to join the European Union, but we don’t want to look at the actual processes unfolding there. Nothing is ideal, there are different forces and dynamics in play across Europe,” Bochorishvili said.
She argued that the government’s statements, particularly GD Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s reference to the “Global War Party” were misinterpreted as anti-European, even though similar discussions, she claimed, are occurring within the EU itself.
“When Irakli Kobakhidze first mentioned the Global War Party, it triggered irritation among some European politicians. They understood very well what was being referred to. Now it’s called the Deep State. If it had been understood correctly, they would have addressed the substance rather than labeling it anti-European rhetoric,” she said.
Bochorishvili emphasized that the government is not criticizing Europe as a whole, but rather highlighting internal challenges and power struggles that are present in both Georgia and EU member states.
“These are not problems unique to Georgia. They exist in Europe as well, albeit to different degrees in different countries. A major societal struggle is underway there too,” she added.
Touching on the role of the media, Bochorishvili suggested that how such statements are perceived is influenced by broader media narratives and public discourse.
“How loudly these issues are heard depends on the state of the media. But our strength lies in the resilience of our society, that’s why we enjoy peace and stability in Georgia today,” she concluded.
Bochorishvili’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between Georgia and the EU, with several top European officials recently expressing concern over Georgia’s democratic backsliding and legislative decisions that may endanger the country's EU candidacy.
