EU ministers express concern over Georgia’s ‘democratic backsliding’

European Union foreign ministers on Monday voiced concern over recent political developments in Georgia, warning that the country appeared to be veering away from its European path. The issue was discussed during the EU Foreign Affairs Council meeting held in Luxembourg.

Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris said he was “deeply saddened” by Georgia’s apparent decision to deviate from its European trajectory.

“It is very regrettable to see Georgia turning away from its European path. I am confident that this decision will be reconsidered in the future. I want to see Georgia as part of Europe, but it is truly unfortunate the direction the government has now chosen. What worries me most are the recent developments,” Harris said.

Romanian Foreign Minister Oana-Silvia Țoiu echoed those concerns, stressing that Romania wanted to see Georgia continue on its path toward European integration.

“Romania considers it very important to see Georgia on its European path. However, we are deeply concerned about recent developments affecting democracy. Romania remembers from its own experience how people stood in the streets to defend democracy and their European future. It is crucial that freedom of expression be protected and that free elections can take place — without threats against opposition parties or politicians, as we have seen in Georgia. These issues must be resolved,” she said.