Georgian PM accuses opposition, NGOs of “working against” EU integration

Georgia’s Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday accused opposition parties and NGOs of “actively working” against Georgia’s European integration process. He said the government worked “alone” for 18 months to secure EU candidate status, a task he claimed was met with obstruction at every step.

“Our opponents campaigned against European integration, refused to join working groups, and boycotted efforts essential to achieving candidate status,” Kobakhidze asserted. “Some NGO representatives even argued that Georgia should not be granted candidate status, further complicating the process.”

Despite these challenges, Kobakhidze emphasized the government’s determination to advance Georgia’s European aspirations. He accused the opposition of pursuing an anti-European agenda, contrasting it with his administration’s “pro-European” course.

“Our government is doing everything to ensure progress, while the opposition and NGOs are doing the opposite. We succeeded in securing candidate status, but it was a fight we had to win alone,” he said.

Kobakhidze expressed hope that Trump’s success in defeating the “Deep State” would have far-reaching consequences. “If he succeeds, it could pave the way for peace globally, just as we hope our own efforts will inspire similar achievements,” he concluded.