Georgian PM slams EPP statement, highlights his Government’s role in ‘protecting’ country

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has criticized a recent statement by the European People’s Party (EPP), describing it as evidence of a “tragic political situation” in the European Union. Speaking at a briefing at the Government Administration on Wednesday, Kobakhidze stressed that the EPP - the largest European political party - included Georgia’s opposition party, the United National Movement (UNM), which he accused of establishing a “bloody authoritarian regime” in the country.

“The EPP is the largest European party, uniting most of the continent’s ruling parties. Its membership includes the United National Movement, which, over nine years, violated democracy, the rule of law, and human rights,” Kobakhidze said. He criticized the EPP for calling for sanctions against Georgian Dream leaders rather than the “violent actors” involved in recent opposition protests on October 4, which he said had targeted law enforcement officers.

Kobakhidze framed the statement as a reflection of EU bureaucracy overstepping its mandate, arguing it demonstrated the dangers of losing national sovereignty. “This statement helps Georgian society understand the consequences of external interference and bureaucratic overreach in Europe,” he said.

The PM also highlighted the Georgian government’s record over the past years, asserting that, with the support of the people, it had successfully defended the country against attempts to impose war or internal unrest. “This is our firm promise to Georgian society: we will continue to protect the nation in the future,” he added.

Kobakhidze urged citizens to assess statements from foreign governments and organizations critically, suggesting that only domestic knowledge and experience can reliably determine who supports Georgia’s stability. “The Georgian people, with 35 years of independent political experience, especially in the last five years, have the wisdom to recognize friends and those who do not wish the country well. This knowledge guarantees the continuation of peaceful and stable development, regardless of external opinions,” he said.