Vice PM criticizes US visa restrictions on Georgian officials

Minister of Culture and Sports and Vice Prime Minister Thea Tsulukiani on Friday  criticized the United States for imposing visa restrictions on members of the Georgian Dream government after the adoption of the controversial foreign influence transparency law. 

Tsulukiani described the move as a “mistake in the strategic partnership” between the two nations.

“This is another mistake by the US in its relations with its strategic partner,” Tsulukiani told Imedi TV channel. “Unfortunately, this is not the first mistake, and we fear it may not be the last. Despite this, we remain committed to our strategic partnership with the US.”

Tsulukiani also mentioned the “Megobari act,” noting that the term “this government” was repeatedly emphasized, suggesting dissatisfaction with the current Georgian administration. She insisted that the current Georgian government had always been loyal to the strategic partnership with the US and called for a return to friendly dialogue.

The US State Department on Thursday announced visa restrictions targeting members of the Georgian Dream party, parliament, law enforcement, and private individuals, along with their families.