Georgia’s EU Ambassador highlights review of visa waiver after adoption agents’ law

Paweł Herczyński, the European Union Ambassador to Georgia, has raised concerns over the current terms of visa liberalization between the EU and Georgia. This follows the recent implementation of the controversial foreign transparency law by the Georgian parliament. 

Herczyński emphasized the need for a reassessment of the existing conditions of visa liberalization, highlighting the importance of ensuring their relevance in light of changing geopolitical dynamics. He noted that while the agreement had been established with specific conditions, the recent legislative developments in Georgia necessitated a thorough review.

The ambassador acknowledged the potential implications of suspending visa liberalization, particularly for citizens who have benefited from the freedom of movement between Georgia and the EU. 
He stressed the importance of finding a balanced approach that considered both geopolitical considerations and the well-being of citizens.

The decision to suspend visa liberalization required a qualified majority vote among EU member states, with Herczyński expressing confidence that a significant majority would support such a move given the evolving circumstances. However, he emphasized the need to avoid any decision that would contradict the fundamental values of the European Union.