Czech and German Officials Warn Against Georgia's Legislative Changes
On May 15, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský voiced his concerns regarding the adoption of the Law on Foreign Influence in Georgia, stating that it would have detrimental effects on Georgian civil society, democracy, and the rule of law.
Lipavský emphasized that the enactment of a law resembling those seen in Russia targeting 'foreign agents' would undermine Georgian civil society, thereby eroding the foundations of Georgian democracy and the rule of law. He expressed apprehension that such actions, coupled with various statements made by government officials, signal a departure from Georgia's aspirations for European Union membership.
Condemning the government's use of force against protesters, Lipavský asserted his disapproval of the tactics employed by the Georgian authorities in handling dissent.
Moreover, Sven Giegold, the State Secretary of the German Ministry of Economy, expressed concerns about the Georgian government's contradictory statements regarding its aspirations to join the European Union, stating that these inconsistencies are already putting European investments at risk.
Giegold criticized the legislation passed by the Georgian parliament aimed at withdrawing funds from offshore zones, noting that it conflicts with European efforts to combat offshore activities. He emphasized that such discrepancies undermine the alignment of Georgia's financial regulations with European standards.
Additionally, Giegold raised serious concerns about the National Bank of Georgia's perceived lack of independence, highlighting growing doubts within the international community regarding the bank's autonomy and ability to fulfill its regulatory functions effectively.