US visa suspension major blow to Georgia’s national interests, UNM leader

Irakli Pavlenishvili, Deputy Secretary-General of the opposition party United National Movement (UNM), has described the recent US decision to suspend immigrant visas for Georgia as a significant setback for the country’s national interests.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Pavlenishvili said that strategic cooperation with the United States has been disrupted due to the policies of the ruling Georgian Dream party.

“Since Georgia gained independence, the United States has been our primary ally. Strategic partnership was previously halted under the Ivanishvili-led government, and now Georgia finds itself among countries effectively under blockade. This is a major blow to our national interests,” Pavlenishvili said.

He added that restoring partnership with the United States is in Georgia’s interest, enabling the country to benefit from initiatives such as the MEGOBARI Act, which were designed to support nations governed by administrations that prioritize national interests.

The comments come as the US temporarily suspends the issuance of immigrant visas for 75 countries, including Georgia, citing concerns over applicants from countries deemed at high risk of relying on public assistance.