Georgian Dream ruling party MP Irakli Zarkua on Friday expressed optimism that relations between the United States and Georgia would be revitalised following the November 5 elections in the US.
Zarkua emphasised the importance of Georgia’s independence and its strategic partnership with the United States while discussing the recently passed MEGOBARI Act.
Zarkua criticised the MEGOBARI Act, suggesting that it aimed to mislead the public.
“This is another attempt to mislead the public. It mentions visa-free travel and direct flights. We have been strategic partners for so long, we have been on numerous missions together. Where have you been?! What are you threatening us with?! Who prevented you from having direct flights?! Therefore, this is another attempt to give the opposition and these marginal groups, the executors of foreign orders, the idea that if they come to power, we will do this. It’s not written anywhere, and it’s unacceptable,” Zarkua said.
He further added, “We reserve the right to believe that these relations will be restarted shortly after the November 5 elections in the United States. I really hope that the next administration will understand well that this is Georgia, an independent state, a state of ancient civilization, which has the right to have its interests, its development plan, and strategy, which does not interfere with anyone.”
The Foreign Affairs Committee of the US House of Representatives on Thursday passed the MEGOBARI Act, with 41 congressmen supporting it and six opposing it. The bill aims to strengthen democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Georgia, reaffirming the US commitment to support Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration and oppose the influence of authoritarian regimes, especially Russia.
