Weimar Triangle leaders urge Georgia to stay on European path amid ‘democratic setback’

The leaders of Germany, France and Poland have issued a joint statement marking Georgia’s Independence Day, expressing solidarity with the Georgian people while voicing concern over recent “democratic backsliding” in the country.

In a message addressed directly to the citizens of Georgia on Monday, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk reaffirmed their support for the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“On the occasion of Georgia’s Independence Day, we would like to address the Georgian people with a message of friendship and solidarity and reaffirm our unwavering support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the joint statement read.

While applauding the European aspirations of many Georgians, the leaders criticised the actions of the ruling Georgian Dream party, which they said had undermined democratic principles.

“We support the democratic and European aspirations of the Georgian people. These aspirations reflect the desire to be part of the European family,” the statement said. “Accordingly, we condemn all actions of the Georgian authorities that have led to a democratic setback and attacks on civil society, the media and critics of the government.”

The statement further outlined specific concerns and recommendations, including the need to protect fundamental freedoms and resume stalled reforms. It also called for dialogue between the government, opposition, and civil society.

“Freedom of expression and assembly must be protected. Cases of excessive use of force must be investigated. Laws that contradict European standards must be changed, and the much-needed reform process must be resumed,” the leaders said. “The Georgian authorities must restore dialogue with the opposition and civil society.”

Concluding their message, the three leaders warned against alienating Georgia from its European course.

“The people of Georgia must not be deprived of the opportunities associated with the country’s European path.”

The Weimar Triangle - a diplomatic alliance between Germany, France and Poland - has repeatedly voiced concern over what it saw as increasingly confrontational rhetoric from the Georgian government towards the European Union and its member states, particularly in the run-up to and aftermath of the country’s 2024 parliamentary elections.