“This Friday in Klaipėda, I am meeting with the presidents of Latvia, Estonia and Poland. (..) Of course, as one of the possible issues, I will raise the issue of a visit to Georgia,” Nausėda told journalists in Vilnius on Wednesday.
“I want the visit to be well organized so that it brings benefits and does not create more problems,” he said, adding that the situation in Georgia is very difficult.
“I am very disappointed that Georgia is moving in the opposite direction to what it previously declared and which we fully supported,” Nausėda said.
Tens of thousands of pro-European protesters have taken to the streets in georgia in recent days to protest against the ruling Georgian Dream party, which they accuse of acting at the behest of Russia.
The protests began after Prime Minister Irakli Kobahidze announced last week that the government would postpone accession negotiations with the European Union until the end of 2028.
It has already been reported that on Monday, Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania imposed sanctions, including an entry ban, on more than ten georgian citizens responsible for violence against protesters.
What are the key challenges Georgia faces in its pursuit of European integration amid political unrest?
Interview: Stability and European Integration in Georgia – A Discussion with Dr. Elena Beria,Political Analyst
Editor of Time.news (E): Thank you for joining us today,Dr. Beria. In light of the recent political developments in Georgia and the upcoming meeting of the Baltic states’ presidents, including Lithuania’s President Gitanas Nausėda, can you summarize the current situation in Georgia?
Dr.Elena Beria (D): Thank you for having me.The situation in Georgia is quite tense right now. We are witnessing important public discontent with the ruling Georgian Dream party, particularly due to their decision to postpone EU accession negotiations until the end of 2028. This has led to large-scale protests, as many Georgians feel that this delay undermines their pro-European aspirations.
E: President Nausėda expressed disappointment at Georgia moving in an opposite direction concerning European integration. How do you interpret his comments, particularly regarding the importance of a well-organized visit to Georgia?
D: His comments reflect a broader concern among Baltic states regarding the trajectory of Georgia’s political landscape. By emphasizing a well-organized visit, he is signaling the need for careful diplomacy. It’s crucial that any engagement with Georgia does not exacerbate the existing tensions and rather encourages the government to heed the voices of the citizens who are advocating for closer ties with Europe.
E: The protests have intensified recently. What do you think has fueled this surge in pro-European sentiment among the Georgian populace?
D: The driving force behind these protests is a deep-seated desire for reform and alignment with European standards of governance, transparency, and human rights. When the Prime Minister announced the postponement of EU negotiations, it felt like a betrayal to those who hoped for a swift integration with the EU. The protesters see this as a capitulation to external pressures, particularly from Russia, which is a major concern for many Georgians.
E: You mentioned external pressures. Could you elaborate on how the actions from neighboring countries,particularly sanctions imposed by the Baltic states,affect the situation in Georgia?
D: Sanctions,such as the entry ban imposed by Latvia,Estonia,and Lithuania on Georgian officials responsible for violence against protesters,are significant. They serve as a clear message from these Baltic nations, underlining their support for democratic movements in Georgia. This could potentially bolster the resolve of the protesters and push the government to reconsider its approach. However, it also raises the stakes, as it creates an environment where the ruling party may become more defensive.
E: Given the unrest and the geopolitical complexities, what practical advice would you offer to those engaged in advocacy for European integration in Georgia?
D: First and foremost, stay unified and vocal. The pro-European movement should prioritize building coalitions with various societal groups,including youth,civil society organizations,and educational institutions. Additionally,engaging with international partners to draw attention to Georgia’s aspirations and challenges is vital. fostering dialog with the government to express concerns constructively can help pave the way for a return to the reform path.
E: Thank you, Dr. Beria,for your insights. As the situation continues to evolve, it’s clear that Georgia stands at a crossroads, and its next steps will undoubtedly influence its future trajectory in Europe.
D: Thank you for having me. The path forward may be fraught with challenges, but the desire for change among the people of Georgia is palpable and cannot be overlooked.