Georgian PM asserts agents’ law ‘establishes guarantees’ for EU Integration amid criticism from bloc


Author
Front News Georgia
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze responded to the passage of the foreign transparency bill by the country’s parliament in its final reading on Tuesday, asserting that the move “solidified the country’s path toward EU integration” amidst criticism from foreign partners and domestic stakeholders.
Kobakhidze stated during a briefing at the government administration that the adoption of the law “On transparency of foreign influence” marked a “significant step in bolstering the independence and sovereignty of Georgia” He emphasized that the law aimed to ensure long-term peace and unity in the country, “crucial for its integration into the European Union”.
Citing a sociological survey, Kobakhidze claimed strong public support for the transparency of non-governmental organizations and the law “On Transparency of Foreign Influence.” He clarified that the law primarily mandated the submission of annual financial declarations by organizations acting on behalf of foreign interests, “aligning with European values of transparency”.
Expressing gratitude to government officials and parliamentary members for their dedication to Georgia’s national interests, Kobakhidze urged protesters to refrain from violence while urging law enforcement to handle demonstrations with patience.
The Prime Minister also criticized the appearance of foreign politicians on the political scene in front of the parliament building, deeming it “unacceptable” and reinforcing the necessity of the law.
Critics, both domestically and internationally, have labeled the bill as a “Russian law,” raising concerns about its potential impact on Georgia’s European integration aspirations, particularly since attaining candidacy status within the European bloc last year.
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