Mayor Kaladze: ‘talking to us with wagging finger is unacceptable’ ahead of EU-Georgia dialogue on visa liberalisation

Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze has said that dialogue and cooperation with international partners is welcome, but warned that “talking to us with a wagging finger is unacceptable”.

Speaking to journalists, Kaladze was responding to the announcement of discussions between Georgian officials and the European Union scheduled for June 11 that will focus on issues related to the country’s visa-free travel regime.

The Mayor said Georgian authorities were acting in accordance with the interests of the country and its citizens and argued that Georgia’s identity and historical resilience set it apart on the international stage.

“We are a nation of fewer than four million people, yet throughout history we have left our mark. Georgians include some of the world’s best footballers, fighters, artists, singers, designers and writers. This shows there is something special about our nation,” he said.

Kaladze added Georgia was not opposing either Europe or the United States, but rather pursuing policies based on national interests.

“We are not fighting anyone — neither America nor Europe. We are defending our country and our people. Our policy is based on putting national interests first,” he said.

The Mayor also reiterated that Georgia remains open to cooperation, but insisted that engagement must be based on mutual respect.

“We have said many times that we are ready for dialogue, friendship and cooperation, but this must be done in a constructive manner,” Kaladze said.

He further accused the European Union of applying “double standards” in its approach to Georgia, arguing that criticism from Brussels is not always consistent or evidence-based.

“When criticism comes from the EU regarding certain legislative proposals, questions arise as to whether there is a double standard. We see that some EU member states are discussing similar laws themselves. If it is acceptable for them, why is it not acceptable for us?” Kaladze said.

Addressing opposition claims that the upcoming EU dialogue could lead to the suspension of Georgia’s visa-free regime, Kaladze said such statements were aimed at harming the country.

“We know the opposition’s motivation — they want to see the country damaged. They are not happy that there is peace in the country, that it is developing and that the economy is moving forward,” he said.