Ruling party Sec-Gen claims Georgia’s sovereignty trumps travel concerns amidst US sanctions

Kakha Kaladze, the secretary general of the ruling Georgian Dream party and Tbilisi Mayor, on Friday responded to questions over recent US sanctions on Georgian officials in connection to the Foreign Influence Transparency law and claimed he would not be concerned if enlisted. 

This law, branded by opponents and the international community as a “Russian law”, has raised concerns about its potential to restrict critical voices in the country, particularly organizations receiving donations from Western sources.

“I have not received any mail [on US visa ban]. I am not worried about this issue, and you should not be worried either,” said Kaladze in response to media inquiries.

He further mentioned that when it came to his homeland, traveling was not a concern for him.

“For some, traveling can be an issue, but it doesn’t matter to me when it comes to my homeland. I haven’t received any messages. I don’t have a US visa. The last time I was in America was when I played for the Milan football club. Since then, I haven’t been to the US, and I don’t intend to go. I ask God not to bring this worry into my life, and you shouldn’t worry about it either,” said Kaladze.

The mayor emphasized that it was inconceivable why a government, which “serves the country’s interests, protects its sovereignty, and maintains peace”, should be sanctioned.

“We have already heard statements about sanctions once. I repeat – this does not change our commitment to our homeland. Our decision remains firm regarding the country’s interests, future, and stability. Nobody is afraid of sanctions. Therefore, we have declared our policy – to protect and promote the country’s interests, and to develop and strengthen its economy.

At the same time, we are ready for cooperation and friendship, to restart the strategic partnership and establish real, healthy relations, which is also important to us,” the official added. 

The US on Thursday announced the first tranche of visa restrictions, targeting members of the Georgian Dream party, parliamentarians, law enforcement officers, and private individuals.