Speakers of the parliaments of several European countries call on Georgia to withdraw the “foreign agents” law

The leaders of the legislatures express that they have been with Georgia at all stages of the progress of EU integration, experiencing significant political changes and huge efforts that Georgia has invested in reforming in previous years. Quite recently, Georgia was given a clear path to start accession negotiations, emphasized the speakers of the parliaments.

“We truly value the cooperation we have built together over the years. It has allowed us to engage in open dialogue even on issues where we disagree. We have always been united on important issues of values ​​and principles,” the letter said.

The presidents of the parliaments have emphasized that the decision to continue the path to the EU is the sovereign choice of Georgia and its people, noting that this path is not easy, but steadfast enterprise and the support of friends make it possible.

“We really hope that Georgia does not abandon its commitment to use the historic window of opportunity, which gives Georgian citizens the opportunity to join the space of common peace and prosperity, as well as freedoms and values. We believe in Georgia’s European future and are committed to supporting you,” the parliamentarians emphasized in the letter.

The letter was signed by Speaker of the Saeima Mieriņa, Speaker of the Lithuanian Seimas Viktorija Chmilīte-Nilsen, Speaker of the Estonian Rīga Kogu Lauri Husar, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Republic Pekarova-Adamova and President of the Senate Miloš Wistrčil, Speaker of the Dutch House of Representatives Martins Bosma, Marshal of the Polish Seimas Šimon Holowņa and Marshal of the Senate Malgožata Kidava -Blonska, as well as the president of the French National Assembly, Yael Bron-Pivet.

It has already been reported that Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili has vetoed the law on “foreign influence”, which has caused unprecedented protests in the country and warnings from Brussels that the law may harm Georgia’s efforts to join the EU.

True, the ruling party “Georgia Dream” has a sufficient majority in the parliament to overcome the veto of the president.

If even after that the president refuses to sign the law, it can be signed and promulgated by the speaker of the parliament.

The constitution does not set a deadline for parliament to override the veto, but it is expected to happen in June. The government has indicated that the “substantial recommendations” of the Western partners could be taken into account in this process.