Ambassador: Georgia’s relations with EU, Germany in ‘deep crisis’

Germany’s Ambassador to Georgia, Peter Fischer, has described the current state of relations between Georgia and both the European Union and Germany as being in “deep crisis,” warning that the country was rapidly distancing itself from its European path.

In his comments on Wednesday, Fischer said Georgia was “moving away from the European Union at a rapid pace in all fundamental areas,” and cautioned that the EU’s continued support “cannot be taken for granted.”

“I am not sure that there is a way out of this,” Fischer said. “The key to the solution lies in Georgia - only in Georgia. We have been good, reliable partners since Georgia’s independence. We want to continue that partnership, but only if Georgia also wants to be a good partner to us.”

The ambassador also addressed the growing risk to Georgia’s visa-free travel arrangement with the EU, describing it as a “privilege” tied to specific conditions.

“The European Commission has now asked Georgia whether these conditions are still being met. We will see how the Georgian government responds, and we will make the necessary decision,” Fischer said.

While emphasising that Germany did not wish to impose sanctions, Fischer said such measures could be used in response to human rights violations, under international standards and agreements to which Georgia is a signatory.

“We have already used sanctions for human rights violations and will continue to do so if necessary,” he said.