Comment of the MFA of Ukraine regarding the aggravation of the internal political situation in Georgia connected with the consideration of the draft law "On transparency of foreign influence"

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine is concerned about the aggravation of the internal political situation in Georgia connected with the consideration of the draft law "On transparency of foreign influence" in the Parliament of Georgia.

We call on all concerned parties to respect the right of Georgian citizens to a peaceful protest and find a solution through constructive dialogue.

Respecting the rights and freedoms of citizens, as well as involving the civil society in settling socially important issues are necessary conditions for building the country’s European future.

The comments of the Prime Minister of Georgia Irakli Kobakhidze regarding the threat of "ukrainization", against which this draft law is allegedly aimed, are disturbing.

Mentioning the name of our country in such an offensive context causes additional damage to Ukrainian-Georgian relations. Russification, but not mythical "ukrainization", is a real threat to Georgia.

Ukraine is interested in a peaceful and friendly atmosphere in Georgia, has unwaveringly supported and continues to support the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders.

To remind, on April 17, the Georgian parliament adopted in the first reading a controversial bill on foreign agents, which sparked mass protests in the country. The document was supported by 83 deputies, and no one voted against.

A similar law exists in Russia and is actively used to suppress dissent against the actions of the government.

Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili immediately stated that she would veto the law if parliament approves it.

A day before this, law enforcement officers in Tbilisi began dispersing protesters against the bill on foreign agents near the parliament.

A coalition of opposition groups, civil society, celebrities, and the nominal president of the country rallied against the ruling party to oppose this move.

Around 10,000 people participated in the protest action.